Abuja: The Federal Ministry of Works has directed the contractor responsible for the rehabilitation of the Abuja-Keffi Expressway to expedite the project by working at night. This directive aims to alleviate the traffic congestion that has been a significant issue for commuters.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of State for Works, Alhaji Bello Goronyo, emphasized the urgency of the situation during his inspection of the road. He highlighted that while 41 kilometres of the 43.6-kilometre road have been completed on the Keffi-bound section, the remaining three kilometres on the Abuja-bound stretch are problematic due to flooding. The contractor has been fully mobilised, but traffic along this axis has been a challenge.
Goronyo suggested night-time work to minimise disruptions and meet the project timeline. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by commuters from the Keffi, Nyanya axis trying to reach Abuja city. The ministry has instructed the contractor to implement palliative measures, such as creating a route for water flow, to improve road conditions for better access.
He reiterated the necessity of night work to ensure timely completion and ease of travel for road users. The minister stressed the importance of full mobilisation by the contractor to maintain the road effectively. The ministry is keen to address the heavy traffic and alleviate the suffering of road users, noting the road's significance as an arterial route used by many civil servants.
Goronyo's visit was part of assessing ongoing work and providing directives. He noted that since the last directive from Minister of Works David Umahi, the contractor has progressed the project to 50 per cent completion. However, the major challenge remains on the Abuja-bound axis, specifically the three-kilometre stretch.