The Federal Government has directed the immediate commencement of the long-awaited reconstruction of the 137-kilometre Keffi–Nasarawa–Toto–Abaji road, in a renewed push to boost regional connectivity and infrastructure under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The directive was announced by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, during an inspection tour of the road project in Nasarawa State, where he warned contractors that the government would not tolerate substandard work on any federal road project.
“We are committed to delivering quality infrastructure across Nigeria. Any contractor found delivering substandard work will be sanctioned. The era of compromise is over,” Senator Umahi stated.
Project Background and Expansion
Originally awarded in 2022 at a cost of ₦36 billion, the Keffi–Nasarawa–Toto road project was stalled and eventually abandoned. However, with fresh directives from President Tinubu, the scope has now been extended to include Abaji, bringing the total road length to 137 kilometers, up from the initially approved 118 kilometers between Keffi and Toto.
Senator Umahi confirmed that contractors have been mobilized to immediately resume work, adding that the Federal Government is placing a high premium on transport infrastructure to drive economic development, especially in areas with strategic mineral resources.
Support from State and Federal Legislators
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, who accompanied the Minister on the inspection, praised President Tinubu for prioritizing the road project. He highlighted the economic importance of the route, noting its role in supporting the lithium processing industry in the area.
“This is a strategic move. Several lithium processing plants are located along this corridor, and the road will play a key role in facilitating their operations. We expect the President to commission one of these plants soon,” Governor Sule said.
Also speaking, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, commended the Federal Government for fast-tracking the reconstruction, describing the road as a critical link between the North Central and South East regions of Nigeria.
Contractor Promises Quality Delivery
Alex Zhang, the contractor handling the project, assured the Ministry and stakeholders of strict adherence to quality standards and timely delivery.
“We understand the strategic importance of this road. We are committed to completing it within schedule and to the highest standards,” he said.
Progress on Keffi-Abuja Overhead Bridge
Meanwhile, the Minister also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing rehabilitation of the Keffi-Abuja overhead bridge, a separate project valued at ₦1.5 billion, noting that work is progressing according to plan.
