By Dansu Peter The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has described the ongoing construction of the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway as one of ...
By Dansu Peter
Speaking in an interview with Daily Trust, Umahi revealed that the 1,058-kilometre superhighway is already under construction, with 120 kilometers in Sokoto and 256 kilometers in Kebbi currently in progress. The entire project, projected for completion within six years, is expected to enhance connectivity, unlock economic opportunities, and drive national development.
According to Umahi, the project is being financed through a public-private partnership model, with 30% funding from the federal government and 70% secured through loans at an impressively low 2.5% interest rate. This, he noted, ensures sustainability and a quick return on investment, particularly through tolling mechanisms.
"When you get such a loan at 2.5% interest and construct this road while tolling it, it becomes a win-win situation. The interest is low, and the project will generate revenue for its maintenance and repayment," Umahi stated.
The Works Minister also emphasized the infrastructure corridor*% being developed along the expressway, incorporating CCTV surveillance, solar-powered streetlights, and a concrete-paved road for durability and environmental sustainability.
He further highlighted the **numerous dams along the Sokoto-Badagry corridor**, which could be harnessed for **agriculture, hydroelectric power, and water supply**, bringing enormous benefits to communities along the route.
"Look at the Sokoto-Badagry project; we have over 56 dams along that corridor. This is in addition to those on the Akwanga-Bauchi and South-East to Abuja routes. These dams will support irrigation, power generation, and water supply, transforming agriculture and industrial activities across regions,"* Umahi said.
Beyond road infrastructure, the Minister noted that the expressway would unlock Nigeria's tourism potential, particularly with the Lagos-Badagry stretch linking coastal and historical sites. Similarly, wind energy generation is being considered along the Lagos-Calabar axis, reinforcing the government's commitment to renewable energy.
"We have a lot of wind energy along the Lagos-Calabar corridor. Coupled with the tourism potential along these routes, this is a wonderful project that will generate significant economic returns for the country," he added.
The Sokoto-Badagry Expressway is part of President Tinubu's four major legacy road projects, alongside the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway (750km), Calabar-South East-Abuja Highway (462km), and Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Highway (420km).
Umahi expressed confidence that if these projects are completed within the next six years, they will significantly open up Nigeria's economy, ease transportation, and attract local and foreign investments.
"The truth is, if the President completes these roads, they will change Nigeria forever. These highways are not just roads; they are economic corridors that will shape the future of transportation, energy, and tourism in Nigeria," he affirmed.
With work progressing steadily, the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway is set to be one of Nigeria's most impactful infrastructure projects, cementing President Tinubu's legacy in national development.
No comments