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From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
After years of traffic gridlock and commuter frustration, relief is in sight on the Abuja–Mararaba–Keffi corridor as the federal government says the reconstruction project is now over 90 per cent complete and on track for delivery in June 2026.
The Federal Controller of Works, FCT, Usman Yakubu, gave the update during a media inspection of the 43.65-kilometre highway in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, describing progress on the project as steady and ahead of schedule.
“This project was awarded in 2023 and the contractor moved to site immediately with a completion period of 30 months,” Yakubu said.
“The completion date is June 2026. So, we still have three months ahead of the completion period. So far, the contractor has achieved over 90 per cent completion of the works.
“So, the completion and the time lapse are moving hand-in-hand. In fact, the completion is even ahead of the time lapse. So, the contractor has made a good progress.”
According to him, construction on the main carriageway has reached 100 per cent completion, with only finishing touches and complementary works left. These include median drains, side drains and capstones designed to strengthen the road’s structural integrity and drainage system.
Yakubu noted that the project reflects a shift in engineering standards, driven by reforms introduced by the supervising minister. He disclosed that while the capstone was initially designed as precast, the ministry opted for a more durable solution.
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“Initially, the capstone was to be precast but under the guidance of the minister, he directed that we do precast, which is more durable,” he explained. That’s what the contractors are doing right now. They are casting steel instead of precast. It’s more durable and will stand the test of time.”
He also highlighted the introduction of rigid shoulders, replacing what he described as the “sophisticated shoulders” used in the past.
“In the past, most of our roads used to have sophisticated shoulders. But the minister introduced rigid shoulders to protect the carriageway and also make the shoulders last longer.
“With the rigid shoulders, it will protect the carriageway from the menace of erosion. These are innovative approaches that have brought some changes in the way we were doing things before. All thanks to the minister for his foresight and guidance in the execution of this vital engineering process,” he said.
The contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company, also reaffirmed its commitment to quality delivery. Its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Amoudu Reuben, said the road is being built for longevity.
“We are building roads that will last for 50 to 100 years. On the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are committed to delivering a quality job,” he assured.
A major gateway into the Federal Capital Territory, the expressway connects Abuja to neighbouring Nasarawa communities and supports thousands of daily commuters. Its near completion signals a major infrastructure milestone expected to ease congestion, cut travel time and stimulate economic activity along the corridor.
