Photo Used For Illustration
Project to cut travel time, boost trade, and open up new economic corridors across nine states
Nigeria is set for a major infrastructure breakthrough as plans for the ambitious $4 billion Abuja–Lagos Superhighway take shape. The project, which will span 470 kilometers, promises to drastically cut travel time between the nation’s political capital and its commercial hub, while unlocking vast economic opportunities across multiple states.
According to Dr. Martins, head of Associated Engineering Consultants (AEC), the superhighway will allow vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 80 km/h, offering a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative to the current congested road networks. “This is more than just a road,” he emphasized. “The Abuja–Lagos Superhighway will be a legacy infrastructure project that transforms how people and goods move between the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos. It will open up rural communities, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities across all the states it touches.”
The highway will cut across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and Abuja, with additional spurs to Ondo State and Baro Port in Niger State, strategically designed to enhance regional trade and logistics. By bypassing heavily congested routes, the road is expected to reduce travel costs and strengthen commercial ties between Nigeria’s two most important cities.
Financing for the project has been carefully structured to avoid reliance on sovereign guarantees. Instead, it leverages innovative funding arrangements involving both local and international partners. Key financial and technical collaborators include UBA Plc (Project Bank), United Capital Plc (Lead Arranger), Futureview Financial Services (Co-Fund Arranger), China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), Associated Engineering Consultants, and top legal firms Olaniwun Ajayi LP and G. Elias.
Dr. Martins disclosed that the project is being executed in close collaboration with the Federal Executive Council (FEC), the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), and the Federal Ministry of Works, under the leadership of Engr. Dave Umahi.
Final financing agreements with international partners are expected to be concluded before December 2025, after which a groundbreaking ceremony will be held to mark the commencement of construction. “This superhighway is not just about easing movement,” Martins added. “It represents a bold step towards national integration, economic diversification, and regional development. Once completed, it will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
0 Comments