FG Extends Keffi–Nasarawa–Toto Road To Abaji, Raises Length To 199km

The federal government has approved the extension of the ongoing Keffi–Nasarawa–Toto Road project to Abaji.

With this development, the total length of the corridor has increased from 180 kilometres to 199 kilometres.

The Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection of federal road projects in Nasarawa State on Saturday.

He stated that President Bola Tinubu approved the extension as part of efforts to strengthen inter-state connectivity and ease movement between the North-Central and Federal Capital Territories.

The Keffi–Nasarawa–Toto–Abaji corridor is a major link between Nasarawa, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Umahi explained that the project would be executed in phases, with Phase One, covering seven kilometres, which already has a budgetary provision and is currently under procurement. Phase Two, covering the remaining 130 kilometres, will commence thereafter.

According to him, the federal government is introducing a new and more durable construction method for the project to ensure a minimum lifespan of 50 years.

The approach, according to him, involves excavation of failed sections, refilling with lumps and sharp sand, stabilisation with between 2.5 and 3.5 per cent cement, and compaction with a stone base before exposing the road to traffic for additional compaction.

“For the shoulders, we will excavate 20 centimetres, compact, refill with stone base in two layers of 10 centimetres each, and stabilise with 3.5 per cent cement.

“After that, we will mill 4 centimetres of the existing wearing course, mix it with fresh stone base, and compact again before applying the binder and wearing course,” Umahi said.

He assured that the method would prevent water penetration into the carriageway, providing a smooth and long-lasting surface for road users.

The minister also directed state governments to monitor contractors closely to ensure compliance with standards, warning that any contractor found to be using inadequate equipment would be removed from the site immediately.

“This administration will not tolerate substandard work. States must take ownership of projects within their boundaries by reporting any lapses promptly,” he added.