By Onu Okorie
The Minister of Works Engr Dave Umahi has underscored the important of Road corridor in promoting economic, social and strategic development of Nigeria.
The Minister stated this yesterday at the flag -off ceremony for the commencement of Toll operations on the Abuja – Keffi – Akwanga – Lafia – Makurdi federal highway corridor.
According to him, “it serves as a key artery for trade, mobility, and national security while contributing to the growth of infrastructure, urbanization, and national cohesion. The effective maintenance and further development of this corridor will continue to play a significant role in the nation’s development and in enhancing the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.4. It is to be recalled that the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), rehabilitated and upgraded the road through a Preferential Credit Loan from China Exim Bank.” The Loan Agreement provided amongst others, that upon completion, the road will be tolled, operated, and maintained by a Private Party (Concessionaire) and that “revenue collected from the operation (deducting the operation cost) shall be preferentially used for the loan repayment to the China EXIM Bank.”
“Consequently, the Ministry under the previous administration in 2023 executed a 25-year Toll, Operate & Maintain Concession Agreement with M/s China Harbour Operations and Maintenance Company Ltd (CHOMC) in partnership with M/s Catamaran Nigeria Ltd under the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase I. This is the first amongst the Nine Corridors being concessioned under the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase 1 to commence operations.
In the coming months, the Federal Government will continue with the launching and operationalization of the remaining ones located across the Six geo-political zones of the Country. This initiative has opened a new chapter in the history of Nigeria as it gives the Federal Government the opportunity to overcome bad roads.”
“Tolling Operations is a pivotal step towards the realization of our vision for a more efficient, sustainable and well-maintained road transport system for our beloved country. Today, we embark on a journey to ensure that our infrastructure is preserved for the benefit of present and future generations. The collection of tolls will generate much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of our roads. This aligns with the priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is committed to building a robust, interconnected infrastructure that:0promotes ease of movement that bolsters the economy;creates a self-sustaining and resilient transport network;supports economic growth and job creation; and develops both urban and rural areas across Nigeria”.
“It is important to state that the Toll Order/Fee Schedule for the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Federal Highway has been gazette as follows; Saloon Cars would be tolled for N500, SUVs/Jeeps N800, Minibuses N1,000 and Multi-Axle Vehicles N1,600. However, frequent road users like the Commercial light vehicles as defined under the Federal Highway Act would enjoy a 50% discount. Authorized Bicycles, Pedal Cycle, Tricycles, Motorcycles, and other modes of two or three-wheeled transport used by mainly disadvantaged populations will be offered a 100% discount.”
“I encourage all Nigerians to embrace this initiative as this will serve as a catalyst for improved road maintenance and economic growth. Therefore, I call on us all to continue to support this government policy while ensuring that the ultimate goal of having a transportation system that is modern, safe, and capable of meeting the needs of our growing nation is achieved.”
