The Federal Government has commenced toll collection on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Expressway, a 222-kilometre stretch linking the Federal Capital to the Middle-Belt.
Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, performed the ceremony at Garaku Toll Station, located at Kilometre 32, Keffi-Akwanga section of the highway in Nasarawa State.
Constructed under Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase II Value Added Concession (VAC), the 227.2 kilometre expressway has four toll stations.
Represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Umahi explained that the Federal Government rehabilitated and upgraded the road through a Preferential Credit Loan of $460.8 million from the China Exim Bank.
The cashless collection system is said to have significant subsidies for commercial vehicles and free passage for motorbikes and bicycles.
He said, “It is with great pride and optimism that I stand before you today, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, as we officially launch the commencement of toll operations on our federal roads, beginning with the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Road Corridor. As you are aware, the Road Corridor is a vital infrastructure route in Nigeria, serving as an essential Highway for both the economic and social activities of the central and northern regions of the country.
“The Road Corridor is crucial for the economic, social and strategic development of Nigeria. It serves as a key artery for trade, mobility and national security while contributing to the growth of infrastructure, urbanisation and national cohesion.
“It is to be recalled that the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) rehabilitated and upgraded the road through a Preferential Credit Loan from China Exim Bank.
“Tolling Operations is a pivotal step towards the realisation 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.
“It is important to state that the Toll Order/Fee Schedule for the Abuja-Ket-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. However, frequent road users like Commercial light vehicles as defined under the Federal Highway Act would enjoy a 50 percent discount.”
