Road Revolution: FG Commences ₦111 Billion Akwanga–Jos Superhighway Project

The Federal Government has officially flagged off the first phase of the Akwanga–Kaduna–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Superhighway, with President Bola Tinubu describing the project as a key component of his administration’s legacy infrastructure programme.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The initial phase spans 125 kilometres, connecting Akwanga, Kaduna and Jos, and forms part of the planned 700-kilometre Akwanga–Maiduguri Superhighway, which will traverse several states across Nigeria’s North-East.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, on Saturday, Tinubu said the highway would improve connectivity, stimulate economic activities, strengthen security operations, and unlock development opportunities for communities along the corridor.

Represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the President said the superhighway is one of four strategic legacy road projects designed to improve transportation links across the country.

According to Tinubu, the corridor extends beyond road construction, serving as a vital economic and security route linking major cities, commercial centres, agricultural hubs and communities.

“Akwanga, Jos, Bauchi, Gombe, Biu and Maiduguri are more than locations on a map. They are thriving communities, markets, state capitals, agricultural zones, commercial centres and strategic security corridors. Recognising the importance of this route, the Federal Government has approved its complete reconstruction using modern engineering standards,” he said.

The President noted that the project would utilise Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) technology, which is expected to deliver longer-lasting roads and reduce frequent maintenance associated with asphalt pavements.

He explained that the highway would feature a 12-metre-wide carriageway reinforced with high-tensile steel, alongside modern drainage systems, bridges and other hydraulic structures.

Tinubu also disclosed that mobilisation had already commenced for the Gombe section of the road leading toward Maiduguri.

₦111 Billion Approved for Take-Off

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, revealed that the project would be financed through a funding structure comprising 70 per cent foreign financing and 30 per cent counterpart funding from the Federal Government.

Although he did not disclose the total contract value, Umahi confirmed that ₦111 billion had been approved as initial mobilisation funds to commence construction.

He announced that the project would be executed by China Geo-Engineering Corporation.

The minister also stated that the Federal Government intends to gradually phase out the use of asphalt for major highway projects, arguing that many asphalt roads have deteriorated prematurely over the years.

Gov. Sule Hails Project

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, commended President Tinubu for approving the superhighway, describing it as a landmark infrastructure project that would significantly benefit both Nasarawa State and the wider northern region.

Sule also credited the Federal Government’s economic reforms with increasing monthly allocations to states, saying the improved revenue had enabled states to undertake major infrastructure projects without relying heavily on loans.

“Previously, Nasarawa State received about ₦3.5 billion monthly from FAAC. Today, we receive over ₦13 billion, allowing us to invest in critical infrastructure without borrowing,” the governor said.

He expressed confidence that the highway would enhance the movement of people and goods, support agricultural production, and promote stronger economic integration across the states along the route.