The Federal Government has justified the establishment of four toll points on the newly completed 260-kilometer Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi expressway, stating that the tolling approach aligns with requirements set by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC). Addressing public concerns about the tolls, Minister of Works David Umahi explained that the tolling system complies with legal standards for road concessions under ICRC regulations.
Speaking in Abuja, Umahi noted that the expressway’s tolls were developed to meet both minimum and maximum tolling benchmarks mandated for infrastructure concessions. Though toll collection is not yet active on the route, some commuters have raised concerns over potential financial burden from the four toll gates. However, they also expressed appreciation for the project’s timely delivery, recognizing its significance for regional connectivity.
“At 260 kilometers, the road’s dual-lane structure covers a total of 520 kilometers, and there are only four toll gates across this stretch. This approach follows ICRC guidelines,” Umahi emphasized. He also highlighted that the toll system will operate through a cashless, electronic payment model aimed at streamlining the process.
Umahi acknowledged potential challenges with cashless tolling, particularly for those less familiar with electronic systems, and shared that a committee was formed to address these issues. “Next week, our committee will meet with us to outline strategies for inclusive electronic tolling. We want to make sure even those unfamiliar with ICT are not left out,” he added.
The committee, inaugurated on October 17, is responsible for implementing the cashless tolling system. Its objectives include designing the tolling system, establishing relief stations with essential services such as supermarkets and clinics, and enhancing security measures along the highway. According to Umahi, security teams will be deployed to ensure rapid response, targeting a 10-minute reaction time to incidents.
The Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi project, completed under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction–Finance (EPC+F) agreement, was constructed by China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC) and financed primarily by China Exim Bank, which covered 85 percent ($460.8 million) of the $542 million project cost through a Preferential Export Buyer’s Credit arrangement. The Nigerian government provided the remaining 15 percent in counterpart funding. The agreement allows CHEC to manage the tolling and recover costs, a key part of the project’s repayment model.
This strategic infrastructure upgrade forms part of the Highway Development and Management Initiative, focusing on sustainable and technologically advanced transportation networks that also promise enhanced security and better commuter experiences along the Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi route.
