Toll Gates Return to Nigerian Highways After 20-Year Hiatus

The Federal Government has reintroduced toll gates on Nigerian highways, marking the end of a 20-year hiatus following their discontinuation by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. This move is part of a broader initiative to revitalize road infrastructure and generate sustainable funding for their maintenance and development.

The reintroduction commenced on Tuesday, January 29th, with the activation of toll plazas along the 227.2-kilometer Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi road corridor.

Under the new system, saloon cars will be charged N500, SUVs N800, minibuses N1,000, and articulated vehicles N1,600. However, the government has implemented a 50% discount for commercial light vehicles and a 100% exemption for pedal cycles, tricycles, motorcycles, and other two- or three-wheeled vehicles used primarily by disadvantaged populations.

This project is managed by China Harbor Engineering, a departure from previous arrangements where the Ministry of Works oversaw toll operations. The company secured a loan from China Exim Bank to finance the road rehabilitation, with the toll revenue earmarked for loan repayment and ongoing road maintenance.

Minister of Works Dave Umahi emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “The effective maintenance and further development of this corridor will continue to play a significant role in the nation’s development and enhancing the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.”

He further explained that the project aligns with the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase I, which aims to concession nine road corridors across the country.

Nasarawa State Governor Mohammed Sule, while acknowledging the importance of toll gates, emphasized the need for transparency and public buy-in. He highlighted the potential economic benefits, including improved security, reduced accidents, and increased economic activity along the corridor.

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