Wang Wenfei, the Managing Director of China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited (CHEC), says the tolling and 25-year concession contract for the maintenance of the 227.2 km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Expressway is a significant milestone that will play a crucial role in stimulating economic growth along the road corridor.
Wang made these remarks on Tuesday during the official launch of toll operations on the Abuja–Akwanga–Lafia–Makurdi Road corridor, which is intended to repay the $460.8 million loan obtained from the China Exim Bank for the road’s rehabilitation and upgrade.
He commended the efforts of CHEC in delivering the project in record time, despite numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily halted construction work. Wang noted that the project created numerous job opportunities during its execution.
“We recruited a large number of employees throughout the project implementation, generating significant job opportunities along the route and training many skilled construction professionals,” Wang stated.
He emphasized that the successful completion of the project has greatly enhanced road safety, security, and comfort, significantly reduced travel time, and provided immense convenience to residents and commuters.
Wang noted that the construction of the 227.2 km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Expressway has been vital in accelerating economic development in the road corridor and the country as a whole.
He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, including the local community, for their support in the successful completion of the project, noting that anyone who travels on the road can personally witness the positive impact it has brought.
“Additionally, through our operation and maintenance company, we will create more long-term job opportunities, bringing lasting socio-economic benefits to the communities along the route,” he added.
In November 2018, the Nigerian government awarded a $542 million contract to CHEC for the rehabilitation of the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi road, with 85% of the contract sum, amounting to $460.8 million, financed through a loan from China Exim Bank.
