FG justifies 4 toll gates on Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi expressway

The Federal Government has defended its decision to establish four toll gates along the 260-kilometer Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi expressway, clarifying that it aligns with the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) guidelines. Minister of Works, David Umahi, addressed concerns from commuters about the tolling frequency, explaining that the ICRC framework mandates specific requirements for tolling on concessioned roads.

Responding to commuters who expressed concerns over the potential burden of four toll payment points, Umahi emphasized, “The total length of that road is 260 kilometers, and it is dualized, totaling 520 kilometers. I don’t think we have more than four toll gates on that road.” He added that a committee has been formed to implement a cashless tolling system, which will help modernize toll payment and address potential literacy barriers for cashless transactions.

The cashless system, inaugurated by the Minister on October 17, aims to enhance the efficiency and security of toll collections as part of the Highway Development and Management Initiative. The committee’s objectives include establishing relief stations equipped with essential services, such as clinics and security outposts, and improving rapid-response security along the route. “Within 10 minutes of any incident along the route, security personnel will be able to respond,” Umahi assured.

The $542 million project was undertaken by the China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC) under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction–Finance (EPC+F) model. The China Exim Bank provided 85 percent of the funding, with the remaining 15 percent funded by the Nigerian government. As per the agreement, the road will be tolled to recoup investment costs.

Commuters have commended the government for the road’s timely delivery, despite mixed reactions to the tolling arrangement.