The Federal Government has officially commenced tolling on the Abuja-Makurdi Expressway as part of efforts to repay a $460 million loan used for the highway’s reconstruction. Nigerian Stories announced the development on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, confirming that motorists traveling on the crucial route will now be required to pay toll fees.
Under the new tolling system, saloon cars will be charged N500, while multi-axle vehicles will pay up to N1,600 per trip. However, police and military vehicles have been granted exemptions, a move that has sparked mixed reactions among road users.
The tolling initiative is part of the Federal Government’s Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), aimed at improving infrastructure financing and ensuring the sustainability of major road networks across the country. The Abuja-Makurdi Expressway, a vital economic corridor linking the Federal Capital Territory to the North Central and Eastern regions, has undergone extensive upgrades, and authorities insist that the tolling system will enhance maintenance and ensure long-term road quality.
However, the new charges have stirred debates among motorists, with some expressing concerns over high transportation costs and the impact on commuters and businesses. Others argue that if properly managed, the toll revenue could help maintain the road and prevent it from falling into disrepair.
As the policy takes effect, all eyes are on the government to ensure accountability, transparency, and efficiency in the management of the toll funds. Will this new system bring the expected improvements, or will it become another burden on Nigerian road users? Time will tell.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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