Brace Up! Umahi Confirms Tolls Coming To All Major Roads Despite NLC Agreement

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced the federal government’s plan to implement tolls on all major roads across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Speaking during an inspection of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway on Saturday, Umahi revealed that the government had already reached an agreement with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) regarding the tolling system.

He emphasized that tolls would only be introduced once the roads are fully completed, in line with the agreement with the NLC. Additionally, he assured that the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road project would be finalized within 14 months, starting from February 1.

“This road will be tolled, along with other major roads within the six geopolitical zones and key economic corridors. However, we won’t toll any road that isn’t fully completed.

“Our agreement with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) stipulates that roads must be 100 percent finished before tolls are introduced. In cases where roads have been partially completed for over a decade and still require work, we will engage with stakeholders to address maintenance concerns. One of the biggest challenges facing our roads is inadequate maintenance.

“Maintaining 35,000 kilometers of roads is no small feat, so the private sector must play a role in road upkeep. For instance, if a 200-kilometer road has 150 kilometers completed, we can consult with the public on introducing tolls to ensure maintenance, as neglecting the completed section could lead to deterioration. Even our bodies need maintenance—roads under heavy loads are no different. But for now, no tolls will be placed on incomplete roads,” Umahi explained.

He clarified that the inspection was aimed at assessing the level of mobilization rather than the volume of work completed.

Umahi also noted that Zone 1 of the project, handled by Infiouest International Limited, would concentrate on the Kaduna-bound lane, with earthwork expected to be completed by the end of February. The construction of concrete pavements is scheduled to begin on March 1.

“We’ve identified several modifications needed to enhance the road’s durability. We observed significant depressions beyond the field shoulders, and the contractor will propose solutions to address these issues,” he added.