Minister of State for Works, Goronyo flags off Tolling operation on Abuja-Makurdi Expressway in Nasarawa

 

The Federal Government has flagged off tolling operation on the Abuja-Keffi- Makurdi Expressway Tuesday, 4th February, 2025, aimed to propel the country into further economic growth in the coming years through its commitment on economic reforms to drive for a vastly improved Federal Road Network.

This 227.2km Abuja – Keffi – Akwanga – Lafia – Makurdi Road Corridor, which is connecting the Federal Capital Territory to Nasarawa, Benue, and Enugu states, was dualized and is poised for significant economic growth following its concession to boost trade, commerce, and social interactions among these regions.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Mohammed Goronyo said while flagging off the Tolling operation that this initiative has opened a new chapter in the history of Nigeria as it gives the Federal Government the opportunity to overcome bad roads.

The minister said “Tolling Operations is a pivotal step towards the realization of our vision for a more efficient, sustainable and well-maintained road transport system for our beloved country.

“Today, we embark on a journey 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 explained 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.

The Minister announced 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 N500, SUVs/Jeeps N800, Minibuses N1,000 and Multi-Axle Vehicles N1,600.

He disclosed 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”, he added.

The minister appealed to all Nigerians to embrace this initiative as this will serve as a catalyst for improved road maintenance as well as economic growth.

He also urged them to continue to support this government policy and assured that the ultimate goal of having a transportation system that is modern, safe, and capable of meeting the needs of the growing nation will be achieved.

The Senate President, Godwill Akpabio represented by Professor Anthony Ani said the 227.2 km Abuja- Markurdi highway is not just a stretch of road, but a conduit of prosperity, noting that it is a bridge between communities and a lifeline of national unity.

The Senate President said that Nigerians owe a debt of gratitude to His Excellency President Bola Tinubu GCFR, whose leadership has not wavered in the face of difficulty, adding that this tolling system will ensure that Nigeria roads are not left to the ravages of time and neglect.

The Senate President said  “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 lauded the Minister of Works, Senator Engineer. David Umahi, whom he described as a tireless champion of development, a builder in the truest sense.

In his words: “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.”

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.

Adebiyi stated that the rationale behind the private sector agreement is to provide alternative sources of financing road development and management in the country, adding that tolling of the federal highways has become imperative.

The Permanent Secretary therefore called on all Nigerians 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.