The Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Highway now requires drivers to pay tolls that range from ₦500 for regular automobiles to ₦1,600 for vehicles with multiple axles.
At yesterday’s formal tolling system launch, Works Minister David Umahi announced that the money raised from the project will go toward maintaining federal roads throughout the nation.
According to Naija News, the 227.2 kilometer road project was financed by a $460.8 million loan from China Eximbank.
Umahi, who was represented by Bello Muhammad Goronyo, the Minister of State for Works, explained that the federal government used a China Exim Bank Preferential Credit Loan to undertake the road’s repair and improvement.
“I stand before you today on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria with great pride and optimism as we formally begin the commencement of toll operations on our federal roads, starting with the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Road Corridor,” Umahi stated.
As you are aware, Nigeria’s Road Corridor is a crucial piece of infrastructure that serves as a highway for the country’s central and northern regions’ social and economic activity.
“Nigeria’s economic, social, and strategic progress depends on the Road Corridor. It contributes to the development of infrastructure, urbanization, and national cohesiveness while acting as a vital conduit for trade, mobility, and national security.
To achieve a more effective, sustainable, and well-maintained road transportation system in the nation, he stated that the tolling operation is a crucial first step.
We are starting a journey today to guarantee the preservation of our infrastructure for the benefit of both the current and upcoming generations.
“The collection of tolls will generate much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of our roads,” he said.
He further stated that “It is important to state that the Toll Order/Fee Schedule for the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Federal Highway has been gazetted as follows: Saloon Cars would be tolled for ₦500; SUVs/Jeeps ₦800; minibuses ₦1000; and multi-axle vehicles, ₦1,600.
“However, frequent road users like commercial light vehicles as defined under the Federal Highway Act would enjoy a 50 per cent discount.”
During the event, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, represented by his deputy, Emmanuel Akabe, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for successfully completing the road project.
He also urged Nigerians to collaborate in ensuring the project’s success.
It is important to note that police, military vehicles, and certain essential service vehicles are not required to pay toll fees for using the road.
The construction of the road began in 2018 under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari and was finalized just prior to his departure from office in 2023.