In a significant development for Nigeria’s infrastructure, the proposed Abuja-Lagos Superhighway project is slated to commence preliminary works in 2024, as revealed in the National Assembly’s review of the 2024 budget. The allocated N500 million for this ambitious project underlines the government’s commitment to advancing key transportation initiatives. Moreover, the Lagos-Port Harcourt coastal highway, marked ERGP12211937, is also in line to receive an equivalent sum, emphasizing the government’s broader infrastructure focus.
Senator David Umahi, the Minister of Works, highlighted the timeline, affirming the completion target for the 470-kilometre Abuja-Lagos Greenfield superhighway by 2027. He emphasized its longevity, stating a projected lifespan of 100 years. Additionally, Umahi detailed the financing structure, emphasizing that a private sector consortium would undertake construction, alleviating the financial burden on the federal government. Notably, tolling the superhighway is part of the strategy to enable investors to recoup their investments. Plans to transform the route into a business and industrial corridor, featuring hotels, factories, and housing estates, are also in the pipeline.
Potential Impact on Commute Time and Economic Development for Abuja-Lagos
One of the most promising aspects of this project lies in its potential to revolutionize travel. Presently, the journey from Abuja-Lagos demands about 14 hours, but the Minister projects a remarkable reduction to less than five hours once the superhighway becomes operational. Such a significant decrease in travel time could substantially enhance trade, tourism, and overall economic activities between these key cities.
Umahi’s warning about a potential fine of $10 million should the consortium withdraw unreasonably underscores the gravity of commitments and expectations surrounding this transformative project. However, the promise of a shortened travel duration and the establishment of a vibrant business corridor offer considerable prospects for Nigeria’s economic growth.
Comprehensive Budget Allocations for Roads
Beyond the Abuja-Lagos Superhighway, the proposed budget delineates a comprehensive roadmap for road infrastructure development across various states. The Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) are expected to allocate a total of N617.853 billion towards capital projects from the N657.227 billion earmarked budget. This emphasizes the government’s commitment to bolstering infrastructure on a national scale.
Regional Road Projects and Budgetary Allocations
Several road projects across diverse regions of Nigeria have been outlined for construction or rehabilitation, signifying a widespread commitment to improving national connectivity and accessibility. Notable among these projects are the N94.828 billion set aside for the Lafia road and the ‘dualisation’ of the 9th Mile from Enugu to Otukpo-Makurdi (Keffi Phase II). Additionally, specific projects such as the rehabilitation of Shagamu road, the Apapa/Tin can Island Port access road, and the Ibadan/Ife-Ilesha Road showcase targeted investments in critical infrastructure within various states.
The detailed allocations for roads like the Kano-Maiduguri Road Section IV, the ‘dualisation’ of Aba-Ikot Ekpene road, and the Odukpani Junction to Ikom-Ogoja Road emphasize the government’s determination to address infrastructural deficits across multiple regions. This comprehensive approach towards road development underscores a commitment to fostering nationwide connectivity and economic growth.
The proposed budget’s allocation of N6 billion to the three sections of the Lokoja-Abuja road and N500 million to the Suleja-Minna road phase II in Niger State signifies a concerted effort to enhance vital transportation arteries in the country.
The unveiling of the proposed budget for 2024 reveals a strategic emphasis on infrastructure development, notably highlighted by the commencement of the Abuja-Lagos Superhighway project. With substantial allocations earmarked for various road projects across the nation, the government’s concerted efforts toward bolstering transportation infrastructure offer promising prospects for economic growth and improved connectivity in Nigeria.
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