Federal Government Restarts Critical Maiduguri-Monguno Highway After Eight-Year Delay

The federal government has officially resumed work on the Maiduguri-Monguno highway, nearly eight years after the project was first awarded. The delay, officials said, was largely due to persistent security challenges in the region.

The road, spanning 105.6 kilometers, was initially contracted in 2018 to QUMEVS Nigeria Limited at a cost of N21.7 billion. Following design upgrades and funding adjustments, the current contract sum stands at N28.35 billion, financed through the 2025 Appropriation and contributions from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company.

Officials highlighted ongoing challenges, including transporting construction materials over long distances and ensuring the safety of workers amid security threats. Only 5.85 kilometers of the road have been completed so far, with an expected completion date set for June 2028. Special security measures have now been deployed to protect personnel and equipment.

Authorities expressed optimism that the takeover of the project under the Federal Government Tax Credit Scheme would accelerate progress, linking rural communities to markets and enhancing economic opportunities for local farmers.