Critical Infrastructure
President Yar’Adua flags off expansion of Abuja highways
May 14, 2009, 16:21
| | President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua on Thursday May 14 launched the rehabilitation of two main gateways into the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja
The roads are the Airport Expressway and the Outer Northern Expressway running from Zuba, through Kubwa to Asokoro.
The projects will be financed through public private partnership with government providing 40 percent while the contractors source for the remaining 60 percent.
President Yar’Adua said the prevailing traffic situation on the two roads which leads to congestion during rush hours informed government’s decision to provide additional lanes to address the problem.
The President explained that in recognition of the huge capital required to improve road networks in the country, the Federal Government has decided to utilize the private sector to realize his administration’s seven-point agenda.
“It is noteworthy that these two roads, each of which is now designed for ten lanes, are being rehabilitated and expanded under a private-financed initiative, payment for which will only be made after completion of the projects
“There is no doubt that when completed, these two roads would impact massively on the socio-economic development, not only our federal capital city but the entire nation.”
Earlier Federal Capital Territory minister, Senator Adamu Aliero said the project was in line with the Abuja master plan designed to provide a sustainable development of infrastructures in the city.
The contracts also provide for the construction of inter-change bridges around Kubwa, Dutse, Bwari, Katampe Extension, Barracks, IBB Golf Course and also boycott junctions along the Outer Northern Expressway.
The minister said the projects would provide employment opportunities to about 25,000 Nigerians and boost commercial activities in the economy.
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