Tinubu Approves Six Major Road Projects Across Nigeria, Plans Carter Bridge Replacement

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the construction and rehabilitation of six major road projects across Nigeria as part of the federal government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s transportation infrastructure and improve connectivity between key regions.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who disclosed that the projects include several critical highways as well as the demolition and reconstruction of the aging Carter Bridge.

Umahi explained that the projects are part of the government’s broader plan to modernize road networks and address long-standing infrastructural deficits that have hindered economic growth and mobility across Nigeria.

Suleja–Minna Road Completion

One of the major projects approved is the completion of the Suleja–Minna Road, a project that has faced multiple setbacks over the years.

The contract was initially awarded to Salini Construction Company, but the agreement was later terminated after the contractor reportedly failed to deliver satisfactory progress. According to Umahi, only about 10 kilometres of the road were completed before the contract was cancelled.

The government has now resolved to finish the remaining 71 kilometres of the dual carriageway. One carriageway has already been awarded to China Geo-Engineering Corporation at a cost of ₦91 billion, while the second carriageway has also received approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement.

Carter Bridge Demolition and Reconstruction

Another significant development is the planned demolition and replacement of the Carter Bridge, one of the major bridges connecting parts of Lagos Island.

Umahi revealed that technical assessments and stakeholder consultations determined that the structure could no longer be rehabilitated effectively. As a result, the government decided that demolishing the bridge and constructing a new one would be the safest and most sustainable option.

The federal government has already engaged Advanced Engineering Consultants to carry out detailed design work and cost analysis for the proposed project, estimated at ₦5.6 billion. The design phase will be followed by the procurement process for the construction of the new bridge.

Kano–Kongolam Road Upgrade

The government also approved the review and redesign of the 132-kilometre Kano–Kongolam Road, which connects Kano State, Jigawa State, and Katsina State.

Originally awarded in 2022 under the tax credit scheme as an asphalt road, the project has now been redesigned into a three-lane concrete carriageway to improve durability and long-term performance.

The upgraded highway will also feature modern infrastructure such as solar-powered street lighting and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems aimed at improving security along the corridor. The revised cost of the project is estimated at ₦334 billion.

Reconstruction of Abuja–Lokoja Road

Another key project approved by the president is the reconstruction of the Abuja–Lokoja Road, one of the country’s busiest highways linking the Federal Capital Territory to the southern regions.

Umahi stated that the contracts previously awarded for an 86-kilometre section of the road were terminated due to poor performance by two contractors. The reconstruction will now be carried out using reinforced concrete for increased durability.

The project will involve five contractors, including Julius Berger, which is already handling other segments along the corridor. The estimated cost of the reconstruction is ₦146 billion.

Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa Highway Reconstruction

The federal government also approved the reconstruction of the 103-kilometre Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa Road, a major route linking parts of Oyo State and Osun State.

According to Umahi, the project had been awarded during the previous administration but experienced minimal progress. Following a review by the current government, the contract was restructured and re-awarded to ensure faster completion.

The reconstruction of the dual carriageway is valued at ₦427 billion.

Keffi–Nasarawa–Abaji Road Rehabilitation

The sixth project involves the second phase of the rehabilitation of the Keffi–Nasarawa–Abaji Road, covering approximately 129.3 kilometres.

The project, which is estimated to cost ₦203 billion, is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Nasarawa State and the Federal Capital Territory.

Planned Project Commissioning

Umahi further disclosed that the federal government plans to commission at least four major road projects in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones by May 15, as part of ongoing efforts to demonstrate progress in infrastructure development under the current administration.

The minister emphasized that improving the country’s road network remains a top priority for the government, noting that better transportation infrastructure will enhance economic activities, improve trade, and make travel safer and faster for Nigerians.