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The recent inauguration of the Garaku Toll Plaza on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Highway marks the official commencement of tolling on this vital road. This initiative is part of a broader public-private partnership (PPP) project aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s road infrastructure and ensuring sustainable maintenance.
Key highlights from the event include:
- Toll Charges: The toll rates are set as follows:
- Cars: N500
- SUVs/Jeeps: N800
- Minibuses: N1,000
- Multi-axle vehicles, trucks, and buses: N1,600
- Discounts and Exemptions: Frequent users, including commercial light vehicles, will receive a 50% discount. Certain vehicles, such as those belonging to the police, military, paramilitary, ambulances, diplomatic missions, and tricycles, will be exempt from toll payments.
- Financing and Operations: The road’s rehabilitation and upgrade were financed through a preferential credit loan from the China Exim Bank, with toll revenues designated for loan repayment and ongoing road maintenance. MS China Harbour Operations and Maintenance Company is responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance under a 25-year concession agreement signed in 2023.
- Technological Integration: To streamline tolling processes, the project will implement cashless payment systems using Point of Sale (POS) terminals, mobile apps, and electronic payment systems.
- Strategic Importance: The road, which spans 227.2 kilometers, plays a critical role in connecting central and northern Nigeria, facilitating economic and social activities. The initiative has received praise from various officials, including the Governor of Nasarawa State, who called for similar upgrades to other key federal highways.
This project is part of a larger effort to improve infrastructure in Nigeria, with more PPP-driven initiatives expected to follow.
