FG Commences Tolling on Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Highway, Pledges Improved Road Maintenance
The Federal Government has officially launched tolling operations on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Highway, marking a significant step towards sustainable road maintenance and infrastructure funding in Nigeria.
The toll charges, which range from N500 for saloon cars to N1,600 for multi-axle vehicles, will provide much-needed revenue for the upkeep of federal roads nationwide.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony at Garaku Toll Station in Nasarawa State, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, underscored the importance of the project in Nigeria’s economic and social development.
“It is with great pride and optimism that I stand before you today, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, as we officially launch the commencement of toll operations on our federal roads, beginning with the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Road Corridor,” Umahi stated.
He highlighted that the corridor serves as a vital economic artery, facilitating trade, mobility, and national security while promoting urbanisation and national cohesion.
The road, which was rehabilitated and upgraded through a $460.8 million Preferential Credit Loan from China Exim Bank, was initiated during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 and was completed shortly before he left office in 2023.
Umahi emphasised that the tolling system would ensure sustainable transportation and long-term road preservation.
“Today, we embark on a journey to ensure that our infrastructure is preserved for the benefit of present and future generations.
The collection of tolls will generate much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of our roads,” he added.
The Minister also announced that the toll fees had been officially gazetted under the Federal Highway Act, with the following charges:
Saloon Cars: N500
SUVs/Jeeps: N800
Minibuses: N1,000
Multi-axle vehicles: N1,600
However, frequent road users, such as commercial light vehicles, will receive a 50% discount.
In line with government policy, police, military vehicles, and essential service vehicles have been exempted from paying toll fees.
Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, represented by his deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring the completion of the project.
He also urged Nigerians to support the tolling system to ensure effective road maintenance and sustainability.
