Connect with us

NEWS

FG Begins Tolling of Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Highway

Published

on

Share

The Federal Government on Tuesday began the tolling of the 227.

2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Highway with the inauguration of the Garaku Toll Plaza axis of the road.

Certain categories of vehicles, including security, diplomatic, ambulances and tricycles are, however, exempted from the tolling, it said.

The road is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project under the aegis of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC).

Speaking during the inauguration, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, described the corridor as a vital infrastructure route in Nigeria.

According to him, it is essential for both the economic and social activities of the central and northern parts of the country.

Umahi was represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo.

He recalled that the Federal Government under the previous administration in 2023, executed a 25-year toll of rates concession agreement with MS China Harbour Operations and Maintenance Company.

The Minister said that the government rehabilitated and upgraded the roads through the preferential credit loan from China Exim Bank.

He explained that it was agreed, among other things, that the road would be tolled, and maintained by a private party and revenue collected would be used to repay the loan.

“The Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi project is the first among the nine corridors being concessioned under the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase 1 to commence operations.

“In the coming months, the Federal Government will continue with the launching and operationalisation of the remaining ones located across the six geopolitical zones of this country.

“This initiative has opened a new chapter in the history of Nigeria, as it gives the Federal Government the opportunity to overcome bad routes,” he said.

Umahi said the collection of tolls would generate the much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of the Renewed Hope Road Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

He said that the Tinubu administration was committed to building a robust, interconnected infrastructure for socio-economic growth.

“The toll order fee schedule for Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafayette-Makurdi Federal Highway has been designated as follows: cars-N500; SUV Jeep-N800; minibuses N1000, and multi-axle vehicles, trucks and buses N1600.

“However, frequent road users like the commercial light vehicles defined under the Federal Highways Act, will enjoy a 50 per cent discount.

“Authorised vehicles, pedal vehicles, tricycles, motorcycles, and other modes of two or three wheels transport used by mainly disadvantaged populations will be offered a 100 per cent discount,” he said.

The Minister further said that effective maintenance and further development of the corridor would continue to play a role in national development and the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.

He encouraged Nigerians to embrace the initiative as it would serve as a catalyst for road maintenance and economic growth.

“The ultimate goal is to have a transportation system that is modern, safe and capable of meeting the needs of our growing nation,” he said.

Umahi listed the benefits of tolling the road to include, accident reduction, short travel hours and improved security on the road.

Reacting to a request by Nasarawa State for another federal road in the state to get such attention, the minister said he had directed the Permanent Secretary to start liaison for an immediate solution.

The Governor of Nasarawa, Abdullahi Sule, lauded President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to road infrastructure.

Sule, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, described the road as a bridge between communities and a lifeline of national unity.

“We need to encourage the people and get their buy-in because our vehicles will last longer, less accidents, and economy will develop because shops, sales, and all that will come up at the tollgates,” he noted.

Sule requested that such should be replicated on the federal highway from Doma to Nassarawa and Abuja, to ease travel time and boost the economy.

Also speaking at the event, the Director General of ICRC, Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, said that the project was evidence of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria’s infrastructure development.

Ewalefoh, who was represented by the Director, Transport Infrastructure Department, Mr Shehu Danmusa, said the ICRC was the PPP regulator, adding that the project conformed with the ICRC Act.

He lauded the Federal Ministry of Works and the concessionaire for their commitment to the project, calling on Nigerians to give the project the needed support as more PPP projects beyond roads were underway.

The Managing Director of Catamaran, Lai Are, explained that the tolling would be cashless.

He said that Point of Sale (POS)purchase and other electronic devices would be used for payment to ensure swift passage for road users.

Are added that a number of technology products would be developed including apps, websites and POS systems in partnership with existing POS deployers.

This, he said, was to ensure ease of payments for the road users.

“In accordance with the tolling policy, vehicles of the Nigerian police force, armed forces, paramilitary organisations, Nigerian correctional services, fire services, ambulance and diplomatic missions, bicycles and motorcycles shall be exempt from tolls,” he said.(NAN)

NEWS

Police Officer Commits Suicide in Ogun

Published

on

Share

The Police Command in Ogun State has confirmed a police officer, Insp Ajele Oloyede, allegedly shot himself in the Igbesa area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, confirmed this in a statement issued to journalists in Ota, Ogun state, on Sunday.

He said before who the tragic incident at about 1:20 p.

m.
on  Friday, the deceased officer was on special duty at Goodwill Ceramic Company,

“According to preliminary reports, Tolorunloju Stephen, an officer attached to the Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos,who was also on special duty at the company.

“He had just returned from Ikeja when he entered the security office.

“He found Oloyede resting his head on a table.

After exchanging pleasantries and briefly inquiring about his well-being, Oloyede responded positively.

“Shortly after, Stephen proceeded to the restroom but moments later heard a gunshot.

“Rushing back, he found Inspector Oloyede lying in a pool of blood.”

Odutola said that with the assistance of private security personnel, the injured officer was immediately rushed to Ota General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

She added that the firearm used in the incident had been recovered, and the officer’s body had been deposited at the hospital for an autopsy.

“The Ogun state police command has launched an investigation into the tragic death of Inspector Oloyede, who was reported to have shot himself while on special duty at Goodwill Ceramic Company, Igbesa,” Odutola said.

She noted that the Commissioner of Police had ordered a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the possibility of foul play or mental health concerns.

Odutola assured that the police swiftly contacted the deceased officer’s family.

According to her,  the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, for a thorough investigation.

She extended the Nigeria Police Force’s deepest condolences to the officer’s family, colleagues, and loved ones.

“The command remains committed to the well-being of its officers and will ensure all necessary support is provided during this difficult time,” she added.

Continue Reading

NEWS

We Didn’t Borrow to Accomplish Achievements in 3 Years – Gov Soludo 

Published

on

Share

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has said that his administration achieved significant progress in infrastructure and human capital development in three years without borrowing money.

Soludo made the disclosure on Sunday during a thanksgiving Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Awka, ahead of the celebrations marking his third anniversary in office on March 17.

He said: “I express my gratitude to the Almighty God because it is a journey ordained by God.

Tomorrow, March 17, we will be three years in office.

“Three years ago, we applied for this job and you employed us based on trust. Looking back on the promises we made, it is fair to say so far, so good.

“We have commissioned over 750 kilometers of roads, with more than 400km already completed. Additionally, we have recruited over 8,000 teachers and rehabilitated public schools to enhance the education sector.

“We achieved remarkable progress in youth empowerment, agriculture, security, and the health sector. Today, Anambra is leading in health in Nigeria.

“We have done all these without borrowing one kobo in three years.

The governor said his goal was to transform the state into the Dubai, Taiwan, and Silicon Valley of Africa, leveraging its abundant resources and exceptional human capital.

“We still have one more year left in this tenure, and I want to assure you that we will continue working diligently every single day to fulfill the promises we made to you.

“So far, we are on track to laying the foundations for realising the Anambra of our dreams,” he said.

Soludo thanked residents for their support and prayers.

Earlier in his sermon, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, said that serving as a governor, senator, or bishop is a sacred contract with both God and the electorate.

According to him, it is a form of stewardship, where one is entrusted with duties that demand accountability to the people and adherence to personal principles.

Kukah praised Gov. Soludo for his accomplishments over the past three years and for his expression of gratitude to God.

“I’m from Kaduna State, but I must admit I’m jealous of the progress in Anambra. You have consistently had governors who leave their unique mark in terms of good governance.

“Anambra is a state with great men and women like Cardinal Francis Arinze, late Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Adichie, late Dr Alex Ekwueme and many others. And I’m happy that Gov. Soludo is consolidating on the gains.

“I have seen some of the projects by Gov. Soludo and I commend him. These are projects that will improve the quality of life of the people.

“I pray that your agenda for securing the people, for education, health, women and youth empowerment will be achieved by God’s Grace for the betterment of the people,” Kukah said.(NAN)

Continue Reading

NEWS

6 Die as Truck Rams Into Vehicles, Pedestrians in Onitsha

Published

on

Multiple Accidents Claim Two, Injured Nine on Lagos-Ibadan expressway
Share

The Police Command in Anambra has confirmed that six people died in a multiple-vehicle accident on Saturday at Upper Iweka axis of Onitsha, the commercial hub of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer(CPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said in a statement on Sunday that the police had taken over the accident scene to maintain order and facilitate investigations.

“According to eyewitness accounts, the accident occurred due to the loss of control of a truck, which rammed into pedestrians, two tricycles, and a commercial bus loaded with passengers,” he said

Ikenga noted that the crash claimed six lives, while several others sustained injuries and were currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

He added that the bodies of the deceased had been deposited in the morgue.

He added that some relatives of the victims had been contacted and informed about the incident.

Ikenga said that the command extended its condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.

He urged drivers to conduct necessary safety checks before plying the roads to prevent such tragic incidents.

The CPRO assured the public that further updates would be provided as investigations progressed (NAN)

Continue Reading

Read Our ePaper

Top Stories

NEWS1 hour ago

Police Officer Commits Suicide in Ogun

ShareThe Police Command in Ogun State has confirmed a police officer, Insp Ajele Oloyede, allegedly shot himself in the Igbesa...

NEWS1 hour ago

We Didn’t Borrow to Accomplish Achievements in 3 Years – Gov Soludo 

ShareGov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has said that his administration achieved significant progress in infrastructure and human capital development...

Multiple Accidents Claim Two, Injured Nine on Lagos-Ibadan expressway Multiple Accidents Claim Two, Injured Nine on Lagos-Ibadan expressway
NEWS1 hour ago

6 Die as Truck Rams Into Vehicles, Pedestrians in Onitsha

ShareThe Police Command in Anambra has confirmed that six people died in a multiple-vehicle accident on Saturday at Upper Iweka...

NEWS2 hours ago

Police Detain 2 Suspected Motorcycle Thieves in Jigawa

ShareThe Police Command in Jigawa has detained two suspects for allegedly snatching motorcycles in Dutse and Gwaram Local Government Areas...

NEWS2 hours ago

No Recent Mass killings, Rape, Arson in Eha-Amufu Community-Enugu Council Chairman

ShareThe Isi-Uzo Council Chairman in Enugu State, Mr Obiora Obeagu, has refuted social media video of recent killings in Eha-Amufu...

NEWS2 hours ago

Lassa Fever Cases Decline in Nigeria, Fatality Rate Remains High – NCDC

ShareThe Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a decline in new confirmed Lassa fever cases in...

NEWS2 hours ago

Kwara Govt. Revokes 2024 Signage, Billboard Licences

Share The Kwara Government has announced the immediate revocation of 2024 Signage and Billboard licences across the state. Your browser...

NEWS2 hours ago

UBEC Unveils Strategic Framework to Strengthen Basic Education

ShareThe Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is to adopt Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as a key priority in its new strategic...

POLITICS2 hours ago

Imo LP Working Committee Members Reject Suspension by Chairman

Share Members of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the Labour Party (LP) in Imo have rejected their suspension by the...

NEWS2 hours ago

Kwara Governor Mourns Ijaodola

Share Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of legal icon and statesman, Professor Rashidi...

Copyright © 2021 Daily Asset Limited | Powered by ObajeSoft Inc