- Major Project: A new road stretching from Akwanga through Jos, Bauchi, and Gombe.
- Funding: Partly financed by the China Exim Bank.
- Key Feature: Redesign to include concrete and six lanes (three per carriageway).
- National Impact: Part of a broader plan to spread legacy projects across all six geopolitical zones.
Umahi Sets the Record Straight
Senator Dave Umahi addressed concerns that the North-East was being overlooked in the current administration’s infrastructure plans. He clarified that a significant project is indeed underway, directly benefiting the region. This announcement came during a stakeholder engagement on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
The Akwanga-Gombe Road: A Concrete Plan
The project in question involves a crucial road link spanning from Akwanga, through Jos, Bauchi, and finally reaching Gombe. Umahi emphasized that President Tinubu has directed a redesign of the road to incorporate concrete and expand it to six lanes – three in each direction.
Funding Hurdles and Stakeholder Engagement
While the China Exim Bank is partially funding the project, there’s a disagreement on the design. The bank is hesitant about the three-lane configuration per carriageway. To resolve this, the government plans to engage with stakeholders in the North-East to either convince the bank or agree on a four-lane design.
A National Vision
Umahi stressed that these legacy projects are strategically distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring balanced development. Each project also includes a train track, highlighting a commitment to modern transportation infrastructure.
More Roads on the Horizon: The Badagry-Sokoto Highway
In addition to the North-East project, Umahi highlighted progress on the Badagry-Sokoto Highway, an initiative originally conceived during the Shehu Shagari administration. Tinubu’s administration has prioritized this project, starting construction from Sokoto down to Badagry. The first 120km section in Sokoto State is already underway with three lanes per carriageway.
Furthermore, a 258km stretch in Kebbi is planned for expansion to six lanes. Procurement for the second carriageway is expected to commence soon. The Trans-Saharan Highway is also advancing from Ebonyi towards Sokoto, showcasing a comprehensive approach to road development.
Concrete Benefits
The use of concrete in these projects isn’t just about durability. Umahi pointed out the environmental advantages, noting that concrete emits less heat and allows Nigeria to earn carbon credits. The integration of solar energy further enhances these benefits by reducing reliance on diesel.
Quick Progress Expected
Umahi aims to complete 10km of concrete road in both Sokoto and Kebbi states by mid-May for inauguration, demonstrating a commitment to delivering tangible results quickly.
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