From Maduabuchi Nmeribeh, Kano
The Federal Government has assured Nigerians plying the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway that ongoing works on the ever busy road would be fully completed by 2023.
The AUTHORITY reports that the dilapidated nature of the highway which also link Nigeria to neighbouring countries like Niger Republic, has become a source of worry to the masses.
However, Engr. Yahaya Baba Ali, Federal Controller of Works, Kano Field Headquarters told journalists, at the weekend, that barring all circumstances, the highway would become, not only motorable, but one of the best in Africa.
He assured that contractors working on the project have been well mobilized to deliver in good time.
According to him, all arrangements have been put in place towards ensuring that the 2023 deadline would be met.
He added that the Kano – Zaria section of the road covering a stretch of 137km dual-carriageway of expanded-service-lane being handled by Julius Berger has recorded 23 percent completion.
Engr Ali further stated that, the hybrid road project includes upgrade and reconstruction of over 100 bridges, and box culvert within the stretch of Kano- Zaria section of the highway.
He said that the hybrid highway that runs from the Federal Capital Territory through Kaduna state terminating at the commercial city of Kano, was among the list of 25 ongoing road projects in Kano and its environs.
Engr. Ali also stated that Kano – Katsina (phase 1) which terminated at Gidan Mutum Daya recorded 78 percent completion, while Kano – Shuwarin with a stretch of 202km, (sec 1) Kano- Maiduguri, divided into five sections, recorded 55 percent completion.
Similarly, Kano Gwarzo – Dayi flagged off recently by Kano state governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje with a stretch of 90 km is ongoing as contractor has since mobilized men and equipment to site.
He added that, “we have completed joint enumeration and evaluation with Kano state government officials on Kano- Gwarzo – Dayilast week, adding the total figures earmarked for compensation would be ready soon.
“SUKUK funding has solved slow progress on construction sites, as 4 out of these major projects are on it, SUKUK has greatly ease major challenges to lack of assess to available fund to continue with our projects.”
