According to LEADERSHIP, the Federal Government has rebuilt the 227.2-kilometer Abuja-Makurdi highway, and drivers will soon have to pay new tolls to use it.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
The tolling system was officially launched on Tuesday, 16th July, 2024.
Trucks, SUVs, minibuses, and cars will all pay different amounts at the toll stations.
Trucks will pay ₦6,400, SUVs/jeeps ₦4,000, light vehicles and minibuses ₦3,200, and cars ₦2,000.
There are four toll stations along the road, located at Keffi, Akwanga, Lafia, and Makurdi.
Some vehicles will be exempt from paying tolls, Tricycles, motorcycles, and other two- or three-wheeled vehicles will not be charged.
Police, military, security, and diplomatic vehicles are also exempt.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, explained that the tolling system is part of the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).
This project aims to improve the country’s road infrastructure.
He said the road is important for trade, travel, and national security.
It also contributes to the economic development of the central and northern regions.
Commercial vehicles will get a 50% discount on the tolls, the toll revenue will help maintain the road and pay back a loan from the China Exim Bank, which helped fund the project.
The Abuja-Makurdi highway is the first of nine roads to be tolled under the HDMI program.
The government plans to extend this tolling system to other roads across the country.
The toll fees have been set, with cars paying ₦500, SUVs/jeeps ₦800, minibuses ₦1,000, and multi-axle vehicles ₦1,600.
The toll system is expected to improve road safety, create jobs, and boost the local economy.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
