Infrastructure development remains a key focus for Nigeria’s growth. Since 2023, the federal government has prioritized road construction and rehabilitation, with several projects advancing under revised timelines and funding allocations. While many initiatives began under previous administrations, recent efforts have centered on addressing delays and reorganizing resources to expedite completion.
These projects aim to improve connectivity, support economic activity, and address long-standing transportation challenges. Below is an overview of 13 notable road initiatives currently underway:
While several projects began during previous administrations, the current government has breathed new life into stalled developments by revising contracts, reallocating funds, and establishing ambitious timelines to ensure their completion.
These infrastructure investments aren’t just about building roads—they’re about connecting communities, boosting regional economies, and laying the foundation for Nigeria’s future development. Let’s explore 13 major road projects that are reshaping our nation’s landscape.
1. Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway: Connecting the North
The 164-kilometer Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway represents one of Nigeria’s most significant transportation arteries, linking the Federal Capital Territory with three northern states.
This project, initially awarded to Julius Berger in 2017, faced significant delays until President Tinubu’s administration intervened with decisive action in early 2024. Works Minister David Umahi announced a monthly funding commitment of N20 billion, with N17 billion already released and an additional N33 billion allocated as of March 2025.
In a major breakthrough, the Federal Executive Council revised the project’s cost to N740.79 billion and approved an additional N507 billion for the second section. Now back on track for completion in 2026, this highway will dramatically reduce travel time between these major economic centers and revitalize commerce throughout the region.
2. 9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi Road: Bridging the East and North
The dualization of the 9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi Road serves as a strategic connection between eastern and northern Nigeria. This vital route received fresh funding in January 2024 when President Tinubu authorized capital releases for priority infrastructure nationwide.
Once completed, the upgraded highway will:
- Significantly reduce travel time between Enugu and Makurdi
- Provide an alternative cross-country link through Makurdi-Akwanga-Abuja
- Boost agricultural product transportation from Nigeria’s food basket regions
- Enhance regional integration between the Southeast and North Central zones
The project demonstrates the administration’s focus on creating infrastructure that supports Nigeria’s diverse economic activities across geographical zones.
3. Sokoto-Badagry Highway: Nigeria’s Ambitious North-South Connector
The 1,068-kilometer Sokoto-Badagry Highway stands as perhaps the most ambitious road project in Nigeria’s history. This mammoth infrastructure initiative will traverse seven states—Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos—creating an unprecedented north-south transportation corridor.
What makes this project particularly innovative is its integrated approach. The six-lane highway will incorporate a rail line running through its median, representing a true multimodal transportation solution.
Construction began in earnest with Section I, Phase 1A in October 2024, with Hitech Construction (Nig.) Ltd handling the initial 120-kilometer segment. Using concrete paving technology for maximum durability, the 258-kilometer Kebbi section valued at N428.3 billion is progressing rapidly, with partial commissioning expected by May 29, 2025.
When completed, this transformative project will revolutionize goods movement across Nigeria and significantly strengthen national integration.
4. Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road: Revitalizing a Critical Connection
The long-awaited Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road project has gained fresh momentum under the current administration. Initially awarded in 2012, the project stalled for years until Minister Umahi terminated and re-awarded the contract in 2024.
Now being constructed with modern concrete technology for enhanced durability, the Federal Executive Council approved N305 billion for the project’s completion in February 2025. This critical artery will connect the Federal Capital Territory to the South-South, passing through the Middle Belt, and facilitate smoother movement of agricultural products to urban markets.
5. Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway (Phase 1): A Coastal Economic Corridor
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway represents a visionary approach to coastal development in Nigeria. Phase 1, spanning 47.7 kilometers within Lagos State, commenced in March 2024 with completion targeted for May 29, 2025.
Awarded to Hitech Construction Company Ltd. under an innovative EPC+F model, this project shifts financial and construction risks primarily to the contractor, with the government providing counterpart funding. The road will be tolled for 5-10 years to recover investment costs.
The complete 700-kilometer highway will eventually:
- Connect nine coastal states
- Integrate rail transport alongside road infrastructure
- Feature multiple spurs linking to key cities and trade routes
- Connect to the Trans-Sahara corridor via the Ogoja axis
With rail construction along Section I scheduled to begin later in 2025, this project exemplifies the administration’s integrated approach to transportation infrastructure.
6. Enugu-Onitsha Expressway: Revitalizing Southeast Connectivity
The 107-kilometer dual-carriage Enugu-Onitsha Expressway showcases an innovative financing approach through MTN’s Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment (Tax Credit) Scheme.
Despite initial delays caused by cost variations, construction is now 50-70% complete as of March 2025. The Federal Ministry of Works has established a firm completion deadline of May 10, 2026.
Minister Umahi has emphasized accountability in this public-private partnership, stating that MTN will be held responsible for any structural failures, ensuring RCC Company Nig. Ltd. adheres strictly to contract specifications.
This project will significantly enhance mobility and economic activities throughout the Southeast region, particularly benefiting trade between the two major commercial centers of Enugu and Onitsha.
7. Benin–Asaba Superhighway: A Model Public-Private Partnership
The 125-kilometer Benin–Asaba Superhighway, officially launched in March 2025, represents a model for infrastructure financing in Nigeria. Fully funded by Africa Plus Partners under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement, this project requires no immediate government expenditure.
Designed as a modern dual-carriageway with solar-powered lighting, the superhighway will dramatically improve the connection between Edo and Delta states. The 30-month timeline aims to deliver a world-class road that will facilitate trade and travel between these economically vital regions.
8. Oyo-Ogbomoso Road: Fresh Start for a Critical Artery
The Oyo-Ogbomoso Road, a crucial infrastructure link in southwest Nigeria, received renewed attention in February 2025 when the Federal Government terminated the contract with Reynolds Construction Company due to persistent delays.
Minister Umahi announced that President Tinubu had approved a new contract for its completion, awarding it to Mssrs JRB Construction Co. Ltd. at N147.89 billion. This dualization project will enhance transportation efficiency and stimulate economic activities throughout the region, particularly for agricultural producers in Oyo State.
9. Bode Saadu – Kaima – Kosubosu Road: Opening Nigeria’s Borders
The 130-kilometer Bode Saadu – Kaima – Kosubosu Road in Kwara State represents a groundbreaking development—literally. Before construction began, this route consisted of mere pathways rather than an actual road.
Financed entirely by BUA Group under the Federal Government’s Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, this project involves creating infrastructure from scratch. According to BUA’s March 2024 update, construction requires extensive earthworks, with sections needing up to 8 meters of filling.
Built to last over 40 years with a 20cm subbase, 15cm stone base, and reinforced iron bars with laterite filling, this road will transform cross-border trade and open up previously isolated communities.
10. Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway: Revitalizing Southeast-South-South Connections
The Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway serves as a vital economic lifeline connecting five southeastern and south-southern states: Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Imo, and Rivers.
The 56.10-kilometer Umuahia-Aba section (Section II) is currently undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction, with the Federal Government establishing a June 2025 completion deadline. Minister Umahi has directed Arab Contractors (Nig.) Ltd. to complete all earthworks by April 2025, with only two kilometers of earthwork and four kilometers of asphalt work remaining.
President Tinubu’s administration has made adequate budgetary provisions in both the 2024 and 2025 budgets to ensure this project reaches completion without further delays, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
11. Second Niger Bridge Access Road: Completing a Legacy Project
While the Second Niger Bridge itself was largely completed under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Tinubu administration has prioritized the crucial final phase—constructing proper access roads to connect this monumental structure to existing transportation networks.
In March 2025, construction began on a 17.55-kilometer access road in Asaba as part of Phase 2A. This final component will ensure the bridge fulfills its purpose of enhancing connectivity between the South-South and South-East regions, improving transportation efficiency, and alleviating the notorious traffic congestion that has plagued the area for decades.
12. Lagos-Ibadan Expressway: Finishing Nigeria’s Busiest Highway
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway project, divided into two phases, aims to transform Nigeria’s busiest transportation corridor. Phase 1 includes Section 1 (43 kilometers) constructed by Julius Berger, and Section 2, handled by RCC, which encountered structural challenges on the Ibadan-bound lane.
According to Minister Umahi, approximately 8.5 kilometers remain unfinished, with completion scheduled for April 2025 and commissioning in May. Phase 2 will address flyover completions at RCCG, Wawa, Ogun Bridge, and Arepo Bridge, plus a 12-kilometer dual carriageway at Sagamu-Iperu using durable rigid pavement.
A 48-kilometer extension to Ore is also planned, with the contract expected to be finalized by the end of April 2025. Once completed, the Federal Government plans to introduce tolling to ensure sustainable maintenance of this critical infrastructure.
13. Bodo-Bonny Road: Connecting Island Communities
The 34-kilometer Bodo-Bonny Road project represents a landmark joint initiative between the Federal Government and Nigeria LNG Limited. Initially awarded in 2014 for N120 billion, this massive undertaking includes 13 bridges and aims to connect Bonny Island to the mainland of Rivers State for the first time.
After facing multiple challenges including cost escalations and funding issues, the project received fresh impetus when the Federal Executive Council approved a revised cost of N280 billion in September 2024, along with a 12-month extension. Now scheduled for completion by September 2025, this infrastructure masterpiece will transform the lives of island communities that have historically been isolated from mainland Nigeria.
The Road Ahead: Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Development
These 13 major road projects represent more than just transportation infrastructure—they embody President Tinubu’s vision for a more connected, economically vibrant Nigeria. By addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits, these initiatives promise to:
- Reduce transportation costs for goods and services
- Create thousands of direct and indirect jobs
- Open previously isolated communities to economic opportunities
- Enhance national security through improved mobility
- Attract further investments in adjacent sectors
While challenges remain, the renewed focus on completing these critical projects signals a commitment to sustainable development across Nigeria’s diverse regions. As these roads progress toward completion, they lay the foundation for a more integrated and prosperous nation.
What infrastructure projects have you noticed making a difference in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
