CHEC Assures Smooth Transition into Toll Operations Along Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Road in May, 2024

…..Comply’s with Ministers Directive of Toll upgrade, Complete Phase One Road Construction project

by Michael Umudjon

In a significant development marking the final stages of the phase one road construction along the Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi route, China Harbour Construction Company (CHEC) has announced the completion of over 99 percent of the project. Prince Okechukwu, a Quantity Surveyor with CHEC, provided insights into the project’s progress and upcoming milestones.

Recall that the Minister of Works Senator David Umahi during an inspection visit to the project sites of the ongoing construction of the dualization of Keffi- Lafia Makurdi road in Benue and Nasarawa States in January 2024, directed the contractor to upgrade the toll gates to international standard or risk revocation.

Addressing the media in it’s Headquarters, Abuja yesterday, Prince Okechukwu reiterated CHEC’s commitment to fulfilling their promises, including the incorporation of operations and maintenance (OM) services along with the establishment of toll booths at strategic locations.

He underscored the company’s dedication to meeting the directives of the Honorable Minister of Works, David Umahi, particularly regarding the upgrade of toll booths to meet aesthetic standards and the installation of street lights for enhanced visibility and safety.

“We have diligently complied with the directives outlined by the Honorable Minister of Works,”

“our team is working tirelessly to ensure that the toll facilities not only meet operational standards but also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the surrounding areas.”

Regarding the timeline for toll collection, Prince Okechukwu revealed that CHEC anticipates commencing toll operations by May 2024, following the completion of necessary upgrades and installations.

He emphasized the collaborative efforts between CHEC and the Ministry of Works to facilitate a seamless transition into toll operations and assured the public of the company’s commitment to ongoing road maintenance.

“We are working hand in hand with the Ministry of Works to ensure the smooth operation of toll booths and the maintenance of the road infrastructure,”

“Our dedication to quality maintenance underscores our pledge to uphold the integrity of the road network for years to come.”

Addressing potential challenges, Prince Okechukwu highlighted the positive relationship between CHEC and local communities along the toll route. He assured that the company would engage with community members to address any concerns and ensure their involvement in the project’s progress.

“We have encountered minimal challenges from the communities where toll booths are located,” Prince Okechukwu remarked. “We are committed to fostering open communication and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties involved.”

In response to inquiries about speed bumps erected by communities along the highway, Prince Okechukwu affirmed CHEC’s commitment to public safety while also acknowledging the need for proper evaluation of speed bump placement.

Responding, Engineer Idah Daikwo, , Federal Controller Works Nasarawa State explained that the construction company have complied with the ministers directives as work is still ongoing but optimistic that they will meet up with deadline of the operation of the Tolls.

“Yes some of the work at the toll gate are still being carried out, in line with the ministers directives the contractor have been briefed accordingly and we are going to see to it that those changes the minister wanted them to carry out is done.”

He further said the contractors are working very hard to ensure that the toll is completed with with the design approved by the ministry.

“The contractors are on cite working to meet up the time frame all modalities are being done.” “if you are going towards keffi you will see the contactor and some changes in the toll.

Mr. Daikwo noted that the construction of the road had provided relief to commuters and motorists as well as reduced the rate of insecurity along the highway.

Sun reports that the federal government had awarded the dualization of the Keffi, Akwanga, Lafia and Makurdi road to China Harbour Construction company in 2015 in a spell of 15years.

CHEC nears the completion of phase one road construction and prepares for toll operations, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the positive impact on transportation efficiency and infrastructure development along the Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi corridor.