Minister of Works Inspects Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway Section 3; Reaffirms 36-Month Completion Timeline

On-site inspection of Section 3 of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway

The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, performed an on-site inspection of Section 3 of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway on Monday, January 12, 2026. During the visit, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering the strategic corridor as a means of strengthening trade, transport, and economic integration between Northern and Southern Nigeria. The superhighway is designed to serve as a vital link between Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, and Lagos states, unlocking significant economic opportunities across the transit states.

Technical Specifications and Section 3 Scope

Section 3 of the project spans approximately 162.35 kilometres. It commences at Agbara in Ogun State and terminates at the boundary between Ogun and Oyo states. According to the Director of Highways, Mr Musa Saidu, the road is being constructed using 200mm reinforced concrete pavement. This rigid pavement technology, similar to that employed on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is engineered to provide a service life of up to 100 years, significantly reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Construction Progress and Timelines

The contract for Section 3 was awarded to Hitech Construction in November 2025. Despite being only two months into the 36-month project duration, the Engineer Representative, Mr Aliu Oyewande, reported substantial early milestones. Achievements to date include:

• Site Clearance: 47 kilometres completed.

• Earthworks: 18 kilometres achieved.

Danny Aboud, Managing Director of Hitech, stated that the firm is operating across multiple sections simultaneously and expressed confidence in completing the project ahead of the scheduled 2028 deadline.

Addressing Right-of-Way and Security Challenges

While construction is proceeding at an accelerated pace, the project faces specific logistical hurdles. Mr Oyewande identified security concerns along the "greenfield" alignments (new routes through previously undeveloped land) and community compensation as primary challenges. The Federal Ministry of Works is currently engaging with stakeholders and affected persons to resolve right-of-way issues and ensure fair compensation, which is essential for maintaining the project’s momentum.

Strategic Economic Impact

The Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is more than a transport project; it is a strategic national asset intended to facilitate the seamless movement of people and goods. By creating a world-class link between the agricultural hubs of the North and the industrial and maritime centers of the South-West, the government aims to reduce transit times and lower the cost of doing business nationwide. Minister Umahi emphasized that the Federal Government will continue to provide necessary support to contractors to ensure that quality and safety standards are maintained throughout the construction lifecycle.

Conclusion

The inspection of Section 3 underscores the Federal Government's shift toward high-durability infrastructure through rigid pavement technology. As construction on the 162.35km stretch continues, the focus will remain on resolving land acquisition and security matters to keep the 36-month timeline viable. The successful delivery of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is expected to redefine Nigeria’s logistics landscape, providing a robust backbone for national economic resilience.