The Federal Government has raised the alarm over vandalism and misuse of newly built and ongoing roads.
Officials warned that such actions damage infrastructure, threaten safety, and increase repair costs.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, who inspected the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano road project on Saturday, decried acts of sabotage by some residents, especially along completed sections and key bridges.
“Some people break roads overnight, remove railings, or place logs across bridges. These acts must stop,” Goronyo said.
The Minister called on traditional leaders, community heads, and residents to protect public infrastructure. He said vandalism forces the government to redirect taxpayers’ money from essential services to repairs.
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Goronyo highlighted that improved road conditions have already made travel safer and reduced insecurity along previously dangerous routes.
The Federal Government aims to finish the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway in record time. Goronyo said the project is one of President Bola Tinubu’s flagship initiatives, designed to boost trade and connect northern and southern Nigeria.
Construction, awarded to Infiouest International Ltd in March 2025, is progressing simultaneously across eight major sections. Contractors work under close supervision to ensure quality and timely delivery.
“This highway is critical for trade, security, and national unity. We will ensure it meets all standards,” Goronyo said.
The Abuja–Kaduna section uses rigid concrete pavement, while the Kano section, including the 6.6-kilometre airport road, uses asphalt. Work continues at multiple locations, including Madalla, Jere, Katari, Kakau, Gonigora, and Agogo Junction. So far, 26 km of concrete pavement and 15 km of binder and asphalt are complete.
Engineer Musa, Director of Bridges and Design, explained that rigid concrete withstands heavy trucks better than asphalt and can last over 100 years. The project also recycles milled asphalt into the road base, cutting costs and environmental impact.
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Senior Project Manager Robert Turner confirmed that Infiouest works seven days a week and may introduce night shifts to meet deadlines.
“We aim to finish the road faster than planned, thanks to consistent government funding,” Turner said.
The Federal Government emphasized that safeguarding roads is everyone’s responsibility. Vandalism not only increases costs but also threatens travel safety and economic growth.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
