AEC Unity Network Limited is set to commence construction on the 470-kilometer Abuja-Lagos superhighway project after completing preliminary design studies and securing federal approval. Dr. Kenny Martins, Chairman of AEC Unity Network Limited, announced during a press conference at the Oriental Hotel Lagos that the company has concluded all preparatory work and is awaiting the Federal Executive Council’s final authorization to begin construction.
The ambitious infrastructure project, which began planning six years ago under the previous administration, will connect Nigeria’s political and economic capitals through what Martins described as “the nearest and best link by road between the Federal Capital, Abuja, and the Economic Capital, Lagos.” The superhighway will traverse multiple states including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, and Abuja, with plans for strategic spurs to enhance connectivity to other regions.
Martins paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling for a moment of silence in honor of the leader who “received this project with open hands and great enthusiasm during his time in office.” He emphasized that the project represents a departure from traditional foreign financing models, noting that AEC Unity opted for a hybrid arrangement with local and international partners rather than sovereign guarantees due to Nigeria’s existing foreign debt obligations.
The project consortium includes major partners such as UBA PLC as the project bank, China Harbour Engineering Company handling contractor financing of approximately $1 billion for 100 kilometers of construction, United Capital PLC as the mandated lead arranger, and various legal and engineering consultants. Martins expressed confidence that the superhighway will facilitate easier and cheaper commuting between Nigeria’s two largest cities while opening up economic opportunities in communities along the route.
