By Juliet Umeh 

AEC Unity Network Limited has announced that its much-anticipated 470km Abuja–Lagos Superhighway Project will soon commence, bringing with it a reduction in travel time between Nigeria’s political capital and its commercial hub.

Chairman of AEC Unity Network Limited, Dr. Kenny Martins, revealed this in Lagos yesterday.

He stated that the $4 billion project will allow vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 80km/h, drastically reducing the time spent on the road and offering a safer, faster, and more efficient alternative to existing routes.

Speaking to the media, Martins said: “This is more than just a road. The Abuja–Lagos Superhighway will be a legacy infrastructure project that transforms how people and goods move between the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos. 

“It will open up rural communities, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities across all the states it touches.”

He noted: “The highway will span 470km, cutting across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and Abuja, with planned spurs to Ondo State and Baro Port in Niger State to further boost regional trade. 

“Once completed, the superhighway is expected to bypass congested corridors, making it faster and cheaper for commuters and businesses to travel between the two major cities.”

Martins disclosed that the project is being delivered in close collaboration with the Federal Executive Council, FEC, the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, ICRC, and the Ministry of Works under Engr. Dave Umahi. Financing has been structured without sovereign guarantees, instead leveraging innovative arrangements with local and international partners.

Key financial and technical partners on the project include UBA Plc (Project Bank), United Capital Plc (Lead Arranger), Futureview Financial Services (Co-Fund Arranger), China Harbour Engineering Company, CHEC, Associated Engineering Consultants, and leading legal firms Olaniwun Ajayi LP and G. Elias.

Dr. Martins noted that final financing arrangements with international partners will be concluded before December 2025, paving the way for the groundbreaking ceremony and immediate commencement of construction.

He emphasised: “This road is not just for today. It is for our children and grandchildren. By God’s grace, very soon we will all be driving on this superhighway.”