At the Garaku Toll Station in Nasarawa State, the administration of President Bola Tinubu has introduced a new tolling scheme.
The Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Highway now requires drivers to pay tolls that range from ₦500 for regular automobiles to ₦1,600 for vehicles with multiple axles.
David Umahi, the Minister of Works, declared yesterday at the tolling system’s official debut that the money raised from the project will go toward maintaining federal roads around the nation.
Recall that the 227.2 kilometer road project was financed by a $460.8 million loan from China Eximbank.
Umahi, who was represented by Bello Muhammad Goronyo, the Minister of State for Works, explained that the federal government used a China Exim Bank Preferential Credit Loan to undertake the road’s repair and improvement.
“I stand before you today on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria with great pride and optimism as we formally begin the commencement of toll operations on our federal roads, starting with the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Road Corridor,” Umahi stated.
As you are aware, Nigeria’s Road Corridor is a crucial piece of infrastructure that serves as a highway for the country’s central and northern regions’ social and economic activity.
“Nigeria’s economic, social, and strategic progress depends on the Road Corridor. It contributes to the development of infrastructure, urbanization, and national cohesiveness while acting as a vital conduit for trade, mobility, and national security.
“Recall that the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) used a China Exim Bank Preferential Credit Loan to upgrade and repair the road.”
In order to achieve a more effective, sustainable, and well-maintained road transportation system in the nation, he stated that the tolling operation is a crucial first step.
We are starting a journey today to guarantee the preservation of our infrastructure for the benefit of both the current and upcoming generations.
Read Also: Omo-Agege Opposes Okowa, Oborevwori’s Move to APC, Declares Delta a Stronghold
“Toll collection will provide much-needed funding for road expansion and maintenance,” he stated.
“It is important to state that the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Federal Highway Toll Order/Fee Schedule has been gazetted as follows,” he added. Minibuses would cost ₦1000, SUVs/Jeeps ₦800, multi-axle vehicles ₦1,600, and saloon cars ₦500.
However, a 50% discount would be granted to regular users of the route, such as commercial light trucks as specified by the Federal Highway Act.
Abdullahi Sule, the governor of Nasarawa State, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the road project’s successful completion during the occasion. He was represented by his deputy, Emmanuel Akabe.
In order to ensure the project’s success, he also asked Nigerians to work together.
It should be noted that tolls are not necessary for the use of the route by law enforcement, military vehicles, and some critical service vehicles.
Under the direction of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the road’s construction reportedly started in 2018 and was completed shortly before he left office in 2023.
