On Aug. 19, the Chairman of AEC Unity Network Limited, Dr. Kenny Martins, assured Nigerians that the long-awaited 470 km Abuja-Lagos Superhighway will begin construction before the end of 2025, once the Federal Executive Council (FEC) gives approval.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos on Tuesday, Martins said the project will cost about $4 billion, though it may rise to $5 billion depending on adjustments during construction. “The project will take about $4 billion, but with issues and changes, it can go up to $5 billion,” he revealed.
He added that the road will be completed in four years and will cut travel time from Lagos to Abuja to just four hours. Martins praised President Bola Tinubu’s focus on improving infrastructure across Nigeria.
“We are fully ready to start work as soon as we get FEC approval and the President flags off the project,” Martins said, expressing hope that all needed permissions will come soon. He noted support from key officials, including the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, and the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC). “We have their commitment. Nigeria should expect the groundbreaking soon,” he added.
Martins stressed that the timeline for the start is realistic and will not stretch into next year. “Hopefully, with God’s help, this will happen before the year ends. FEC approval will make it happen,” he told journalists.
He highlighted that the superhighway will do more than shorten travel time, featuring modern safety and security measures. “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,” Martins said. The road will include solar-powered street lights, security setups, and service terminals for commuter comfort.
After six years of preparation, Martins said AEC Unity Network has finished all preliminary designs, studies, and approvals. “We are confident and ready. The flag-off should happen soon, God willing, before the year ends,” he stated.
The superhighway will connect Abuja and Lagos, passing through Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and the FCT. Martins mentioned talks with the Niger State Government to add a spur linking to Baro Port for better trade and logistics. “It will make traveling easier and cheaper, offering a good option for people going through these states,” he explained.
Originally planned under the Buhari administration with a sovereign guarantee, Martins said the approach changed due to Nigeria’s high debt. “We chose a hybrid guarantee model to protect our financiers and avoid adding to the country’s debt,” he noted.
Key partners include UBA PLC as project bank, Associated Engineering Consultants as engineers, China Harbour Engineering Company for 100 km construction, United Capital PLC for financing, Futureview Financial Services as financial advisor, Olaniwun Ajayi LP and G. Elias as legal advisors, and First Global Commerce Solution Ltd as Nigerian representatives for global backers.
Martins honored the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who supported the project. “We must remember this patriot who welcomed this idea with open arms,” he concluded.
