By Nehemiah Anini for The Chronicles of Construction
The long-awaited 470 km Abuja–Lagos Superhighway is finally set to begin construction before the end of 2025, according to Dr. Kenny Martins, Chairman of AEC Unity Network Limited. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Martins confirmed that the project—first conceived under the Buhari administration—has now completed all designs, studies, and preliminary approvals, with only the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval left to greenlight construction.
The superhighway is projected to cost $4 billion, though Martins noted the figure could rise to $5 billion depending on adjustments during construction.
- Duration: 4 years
- Travel Time Reduction: Abuja–Lagos reduced to just 4 hours
- Completion Target: Before 2029
Martins assured Nigerians that the timeline for groundbreaking is realistic and will happen within 2025, not extending into the following year.
The project is not just about speed but about safety, comfort, and development:
- Solar-powered street lighting
- Modern security systems
- Service terminals for rest and commuter comfort
- Community linkages to open up trade and development along the route
Martins emphasized:
“It will ease pressure on current roads, open up communities along the way, and be the fastest link between Nigeria’s political and economic capitals.”
The highway will connect Abuja and Lagos, passing through Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and the FCT.
In addition, talks are underway with the Niger State Government to add a spur linking to Baro Port, further boosting trade and logistics in the region.
FINANCING & KEY PARTNERS
Unlike previous approaches tied to Nigeria’s sovereign debt, the financing is being executed under a hybrid guarantee model, designed to secure investors without overburdening the country.
Key partners include:
- UBA PLC – Project bank
- Associated Engineering Consultants – Engineering
- China Harbour Engineering Company – Construction of 100 km stretch
- United Capital PLC & Futureview Financial Services – Financing and advisory
- Olaniwun Ajayi LP & G. Elias – Legal advisors
- First Global Commerce Solution Ltd – Nigerian reps for global backers
Martins praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure and expressed optimism that FEC approval will come soon, leading to a formal flag-off by the President himself.
He also honored the late President Muhammadu Buhari, who originally backed the concept:
“We must remember this patriot who welcomed this idea with open arms.”
For professionals in construction, logistics, and urban development, the Abuja–Lagos Superhighway is more than a road. It is a national backbone project that:
- Cuts travel time and costs
- Stimulates economic growth across nine states
- Strengthens trade links from Abuja to Lagos and beyond
- Modernizes Nigeria’s road infrastructure with global standards
The Chronicles of Construction will continue tracking updates as Nigeria prepares for groundbreaking on this historic project—one that could reshape not just transportation, but the very connectivity of the nation.
