Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Friendship Relationship Group, has lauded China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for the remarkable progress recorded on the reconstruction and expansion of the Mararaba-Keffi Road, urging the Federal Government to ensure prompt funding for the project’s completion.
Yakubu, who personally visited the project site to inspect the level of work done, expressed satisfaction with the quality and speed of execution. He noted that the 43.65-kilometre dual carriageway, which links the Federal Capital Territory to Nasarawa State, has reached 99.8 percent completion. According to him, the road is not only a critical infrastructure for easing traffic congestion but also a symbol of the growing partnership between Nigeria and China.
Speaking during the visit, Yakubu said: “China Harbour has demonstrated excellence and reliability in this project. Their commitment reflects the strength of our bilateral relationship and the benefits of sustained collaboration between Nigeria and China. This road will serve millions of commuters daily, reduce travel time, and open up new economic opportunities for communities along the corridor.”
The lawmaker emphasized the importance of timely release of outstanding funds under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme, stressing that delays could hinder the final touches required before commissioning. He pointed out that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already directed relevant agencies to expedite payments, and urged strict compliance to ensure the contractor delivers on schedule.
Yakubu also commended the Federal Ministry of Works for adopting innovative engineering solutions, including the use of rigid concrete shoulders alongside flexible carriageways. He explained that such designs would enhance durability, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the lifespan of the highway.
In addition, he acknowledged the complementary role of Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, whose administration has embarked on the construction of flyovers to ease traffic flow around the Keffi axis. Yakubu described this synergy between federal and state governments, supported by international partners like CHEC, as a model for sustainable infrastructure development in Nigeria.
The project, awarded in June 2023 at a contract sum of ₦73.9 billion, is expected to be commissioned by President Tinubu in July. Remaining works include kerbs, U-drains, and installation of streetlights, which Yakubu said must be completed to ensure safety and functionality.
He concluded by reaffirming his committee’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China relations, noting that projects like the Mararaba-Keffi Road stand as enduring symbols of friendship, cooperation, and shared progress. “This road is more than concrete and asphalt; it is a testament to what Nigeria and China can achieve together when we combine vision, resources, and determination,” Yakubu added.
