The Federal Government has flagged off tolling operation on the Abuja-Keffi- Markurdi Expressway Tuesday, 4th February, 2025.
This initiative is set to continue to propel the country into further economic growth in the coming years as Government is highly committed to economic reforms’ hence, the drive for a vastly improved Federal Road Network.
The Abuja – Keffl – Akwanga – Lafia – Makurdi Road Corridor is poised for significant economic growth following its concession.
This 227.2km road, connecting the Federal Capital Territory to Nasarawa, Benue, and Enugu states, was dualized and is expected to boost trade, commerce, and social interactions among these regions.
While flagging off the Tolling operation, the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi ably represented by State Minister, Bello Mohammed Goronyo said this initiative has opened a new chapter in the history of Nigeria as it gives the Federal Govemment the opportunity to overcome bad roads.
According to him, “Tolling Operations is a pivotal step towards the realization of our vision for a more efficient, sustainable and well-maintained road transport system ter our beloved country.
“Today, we embark on a joumey 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”.
The Minister pressed further that this initiative aligns with the priorities of the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is committed to building interconnected infrastructure that promotes ease of movement that bolsters the economy.
“Creates a self-sustaining and resilient transport network; supports economic growth and job creation; and iv. develops both urban and rural areas across Nigeria”, Umahi added.
The Minister noted 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.
He revealed that 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”.
Umahi encouraged all Nigerians to embrace this initiative as this will serve as a catalyst for improved road maintenance and economic growth.
He, therefore urged 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 the growing nation is achieved.
Representing the Senate President, Godwill Akpabio at the event, Professor Anthony Ani said the 227.2 km Abuja- Markurdi highway is not just a stretch of road, but a conduct of prosperity, adding that it is a bridge between communities and a lifeline of national unity.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to His Excellency President Bola Ametinobu GCFR, whose leadership has not wavered in the face of difficulty, whose hands remain steady upon the tile of the states, steering us through tummy waters with wisdom and resolve.
“He is a man of action, a man of vision, a man who understands that nations do not build themselves, they are built by those who dare, those who strive, those who refuse to accept his status quo”.
The Senate President noted that this tolling system will ensure that Nigeria roads are not left to the ravages of time and neglect. “The revenue collected will be used to maintain, expand, and improve our highways.
“It will fund future projects, create employment, and ensure that our transport system remains efficient and safe. It is a strategy employed by the greatest nations on earth, and we too shall not shy away from its necessity.“Let no one mistake this for a tax without a toll. Let it be understood that every toll paid is an investment in the future, a contribution to a Nigeria that is stronger, richer, and better equipped to serve its people”.
He commended the Minister of Works, Senator Engineer Dr. David Umahi, described him as a tireless champion of development, a builder in the truest sense.
“His steadfast dedication to the modernization of roads, his pursuit of excellence in public works, and his commitment to finding innovative solutions to infrastructural challenges are worthy of the highest praise”, he said.
In his welcome remarks, the Works Ministry Permanent Secretary, Engr Folorunsho Adebiyi said this initiative, will attract sustainable investment, funding in development of road infrastructures and maximization of the use of assets along the rise of wind.
He added that the rationale behind the private sector agreement is to provide alternative sources of financing road development and management in the country, saying tolling of the federal highways has become imperative.
Engr Adebiyi, therefore called on all Nigerian to support the reintroduction of tolling as part of, President Tinubu’s Renew Hope Agenda for the revitalization of roads infrastructure across the entire country.
