The Federal Government has directed contractors handling the Abuja-Keffi Expressway expansion to begin night construction in a bid to reduce the persistent gridlock faced daily by commuters.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, gave the order on Thursday during an inspection of the project. He said the decision was taken to address the worsening congestion, particularly around the Nyanya–Mararaba axis, where thousands of motorists spend hours in traffic each day.
Goronyo stressed that the Abuja-Keffi dual carriageway remains a critical lifeline for civil servants, traders, and residents commuting from Nasarawa and neighbouring towns into the Federal Capital Territory.
“The contractor has been directed to work at night so as not to worsen traffic during the day. This measure will help reduce the suffering of commuters and ensure the project is delivered on schedule,” he said.
He explained that while the Keffi-bound section of the 43.6-kilometre road has recorded significant progress, a three-kilometre stretch on the Abuja-bound lane remains problematic due to flooding and waterlogging. Temporary measures are being introduced to improve passage for motorists.
The N73.9bn project, being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company Limited under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, is funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. It was awarded in April 2023 and commenced in December 2023 with an initial completion target of May 2026. The ministry, however, insists the road must be delivered no later than December 2026.
Goronyo, accompanied by senior ministry officials and representatives of the contractor, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strict monitoring and timely completion.
“The completion period of December 2026 is sacrosanct. This road is too important to Nigerians for excuses. The contractor must fully mobilise to meet the deadline,” he warned.
Project Manager of China Harbour, Dong Hong, assured that the company would deliver on time. “We are confident we can finish this project as scheduled. Much of the work is now being done at night to meet the target,” he said.
The Abuja-Keffi Expressway remains one of the busiest entry points into Abuja, and its rehabilitation is expected to bring lasting relief to thousands of road users who endure daily traffic bottlenecks.
