In a bold move to revitalize Nigeria’s infrastructure and generate vital revenue for road maintenance, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially introduced a tolling system on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Expressway. This highly anticipated announcement was made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, during the inauguration of the tolling regime at the Garaku Toll Station in Nasarawa State. The move is expected to have far-reaching implications for commuters, transport operators, and the broader Nigerian economy.
Under the new tolling system, vehicles will be charged a fee based on their category, with rates ranging from N500 for saloon cars to N1,600 for multi-axle vehicles. These tolls are set to provide much-needed funding for the maintenance and expansion of Nigeria’s federal road network, which has been underfunded for years despite its importance to the country’s economy. The Minister emphasized that the revenue generated would directly contribute to the upkeep of the country’s roads, which are essential for the smooth flow of goods, services, and people.
The new tolling regime has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While the Nigerian government views it as a necessary step for the country’s long-term infrastructure goals, some Nigerians have expressed concerns over the financial burden it may place on commuters, particularly those who rely on the expressway for their daily activities. It’s worth noting that the tolling system has been designed with a level of consideration for frequent road users. Commercial light vehicles, as defined under the Federal Highway Act, will enjoy a 50 percent discount, easing the burden on those who rely on the expressway for their livelihoods.
For those wondering about exemptions, the government has been clear: vehicles belonging to the police, military, and other essential agencies will be exempt from the new tolling system. This exemption aims to ensure that security and emergency services can operate without additional financial barriers, which is crucial for maintaining public safety and ensuring that essential services can reach all parts of the country without hindrances.
Minister Umahi, represented by his junior colleague, Bello Goronyo, noted the strategic importance of the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi corridor for Nigeria’s economic and social development. The road is a key artery for the movement of goods and services between the northern and central regions of Nigeria, making its maintenance critical for economic growth. “The collection of tolls will generate much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of our roads,” the minister declared, underscoring the necessity of the toll system in addressing the country’s infrastructure challenges.
This development comes at a time when Nigeria is actively seeking ways to diversify its revenue sources, reduce dependence on oil, and invest in long-term infrastructure projects. The tolling of this critical highway is just one of many steps the government plans to take in modernizing the country’s road networks and boosting the economy.
The tolling system, while a welcome initiative for the maintenance of federal highways, may also present challenges in the short term, especially for those who rely heavily on the expressway. However, with the right investments in infrastructure and the efficient management of toll revenues, the benefits of this move could be felt across Nigeria for years to come.
As Nigerians adapt to this new tolling regime, it is crucial for the public to stay informed about the developments and their implications. To read more about this significant update, stay informed, and keep up with the latest news, join us on WhatsApp or Telegram for real-time updates. Have a report or article? Send it to report@trendingnaijanews.com. Follow us on X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Tiktok, and Facebook for more updates!
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