By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has defended the cost variation in the Abuja-Keffi Expressway expansion and assured motorists that measures are underway to ease traffic congestion along the route.
During an inspection on Saturday, Umahi blamed roadside trading for persistent gridlocks and said the Federal Government is partnering with the Nasarawa State Government to clear such obstructions and create additional carriageways.
Responding to public criticism of the project’s cost, Umahi dismissed the concerns as “mischievous,” explaining that variations reflect engineering realities such as materials, design, and contingencies.
“It is wrong to judge road costs without understanding their technical components,” he said, adding that the project remains transparent and cost-effective.
Umahi also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the Abuja-Keffi road efficiently and providing long-term traffic relief for commuters.
