The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed concerns over installing four toll gates on the recently dualised Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi expressway, clarifying that the project complies with the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) standards.
Responding to questions in Abuja, Umahi explained that the 260-kilometre expressway, now spanning 520 kilometres due to dualisation, follows ICRC’s guidelines, which set minimum and maximum tolling requirements.
“The total length of that road is 260 kilometres, and it is dualised, which means you are talking about 520 kilometres. I don’t think we have more than four toll gates on that road,” Umahi stated.
While the toll gates have yet to become operational, some commuters voiced concerns that multiple tolling points might be financially taxing.
Nonetheless, the minister highlighted that the tolling system would be cashless, aligning with the government’s goal to foster a streamlined transportation framework under the Highway Development and Management Initiative.
Umahi also noted the importance of inclusive technology, especially for commuters unfamiliar with digital payments.
“We have set up a committee because we are doing a cashless collection on the road. The committee members will meet with us next week…to ensure that we carry [those unfamiliar with ICT] along,” he explained.
The committee, inaugurated by Umahi on October 17, is tasked with creating a cashless toll system, ensuring accessibility, and establishing support stations with amenities like supermarkets, clinics, and security outposts to improve road safety and commuter convenience.
Umahi said the initiative aims to build “a strong and sustainable transportation ecosystem.”
