Why Abuja-Kaduna Road won’t be completed, by Fashola

• To inaugurate Loko-Oweto Bridge soon

Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has said Abuja-Kaduna road project suffered all kinds of delays, because the Right of Way (ROW) has severely encroached between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger and Kaduna states, therefore undermining completion before May 29.

Fashola, who spoke with journalists after pre-inspection of Loko-Oweto Bridge Project, said: “We are working with various state governors to help relocate all obstructions, otherwise, we can’t fully build it with almost 40,000 vehicles in traffic every day.

“Essentially, we have made the timeline we set for completion of the bridge; so, we’ve kept to that timeline, courtesy of our contractors, and also our staff, because we deserve commendation of Nigerians for the work that they have done.

“Apart from that, the project is also delayed by the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline project. We need that gas pipeline project as a major boost for our energy security. The pipe passes under that road. Again, the choice before us is whether we build, then they cut, or we wait and let them complete.

“What remains now on this project is to send a report to the president to say that the mission is accomplished, and whatever date is possible, given his crowded calendar between now and inauguration, to perform a ceremonial handover for work well done.”

On the Second Niger Bridge, Fashola stressed that the bridge that crosses the River Benue, North-South link, is in progress and would soon be completed, assuring motorists that it would be opened on May15 as the contractor is working to ensure that date is achieved.

The minister maintained that Abuja-Kano is the biggest of the three projects in terms of scope, size and budget, saying it is a 375 kilometres road and encompasses 41 bridges, which was the last to start, and it will be completed by April 30.

He, therefore, disclosed that Lagos-Ibadan expressway will be completed by the end of this month, appealing to commuters on that road for continuous patience, forbearance and understanding.