FG to begin tolling operations on Abuja-Keffi-Markudi road

…as vehicles pay from N500 to N1,600 for each passage

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works, has disclosed plans to charge tolling fees from users of the 227.2 kilometers Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi road.

According to the toll fee schedule for the road, saloon cars will be tolled for N500; SUVs/Jeeps N800; Minibuses N1000; and Mult-Axle Vehicles N1,600, while frequent road users including commercial light vehicles would enjoy a 50% discount.

David Umahi, minister of works, who disclosed this on Tuesday during the inauguration of the tolling operation at Garaku Toll Station, Nasarawa State, said that the rehabilitation and upgrading of the road were financed through a Preferential Buyer Credit Loan from the China Export and Import (EXIM) Bank.

Representing the minister, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, minister of state for work, explained that road tolling operation had become necessary to aid effective and efficient maintenance of all road networks across the Country.

“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.

“As you are aware, the road corridor is a vital infrastructure route in Nigeria, serving as an essential Highway for both the economic and social activities of the central and northern regions of the country. This corridor is crucial for the economic, social, and strategic development of Nigeria. It serves as a key artery for trade, mobility, and national security while contributing to the growth of infrastructure, urbanization, and national cohesion.

“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 said.

The minister further noted that the project aligns with the priorities of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is committed to building a robust, interconnected infrastructure that promotes ease of movement that bolsters the economy, creates a self-sustaining and resilient transport network, supports economic growth and job creation as well as develops both urban and rural areas across Nigeria.