Nigeria breaks ground on Sokoto-Badagry superhighway

In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s infrastructure, the Federal Government officially launched construction on the first phase of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

This groundbreaking project, held in the historic town of Ilelah in Sokoto State, aims to connect Nigeria from the far north to the southwestern coastline, with the renowned Hitech Construction (Nig.) Ltd leading the charge.

Stretching 120 kilometres, the newly launched section will feature six lanes separated by landscaped medians and built with robust concrete pavement to endure the region’s diverse climate.

Minister of Works David Umahi highlighted that Hitech was chosen based on its track record of timely delivery and commitment to quality—qualities already demonstrated in major projects like Lagos’ Apapa-Oshodi Expressway and the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. “We chose concrete for this highway for its durability and low maintenance over time,” Umahi shared, noting the significance of entrusting Hitech with this long-awaited project.

The Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway dates back to former President Shehu Shagari’s administration, conceived as a bold project to link Nigeria’s farthest regions and drive development across the country.

The 1,068-kilometer corridor will span Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos states, creating a direct route between Nigeria’s northern and southwestern points. As the Ministry calls it, this vast “Trade, Transport, and Security” corridor is expected to foster greater cross-border trade, ease travel and transit, and bolster security in border communities.

Director of Highways Construction, Engr. Bakare Umar noted that the superhighway is not just about connectivity; it’s about enabling smoother trade routes, creating access to underserved regions, and reinforcing Nigeria’s integration with neighbouring nations.

With multiple states soon to be linked along this corridor, the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway is positioned to become a key asset for Nigeria’s economy and a catalyst for regional growth.