By Muslimat Itopa
As the festive season approaches, the Kogi State Government has assured motorists and travelers of smooth traffic flow along the Abuja–Lokoja highway one of Nigeria’s busiest routes.
The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omadara, gave the assurance during an inspection tour of major points along the highway.
He was accompanied by security agencies, local government officials, and federal road engineers.
Speaking with journalists, Omodara said the inspection was prompted by the state’s strategic location as a gateway to more than ten states.
“Our purpose is to ensure there is no blockage during the Christmas season,” he stated. “Kogi is a transit point for over 80% of travelers, and we are working proactively to prevent gridlock.”
Omadara noted that the state is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Works, the contractors handling ongoing road construction, and all security agencies to keep the road open and safe throughout December.
“We cannot obstruct the massive construction work President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing in Kogi State, but we must collaborate with the contractors and ensure the road remains passable,” he said.
He revealed that contractors have already completed about 7 km of road and have pledged to open up 9 km for use before December 10, which he described as “a major relief that will prevent congestion.”
The inspection team also identified critical areas between NATACO and Banda, where potholes often cause traffic delays.
Omadara confirmed that the Federal Ministry of Works would be “opening up” these sections to ease movement.
He noted that the government has ordered the dismantling of crude roadblocks especially at customs checkpoints where heavy stones and obstacles have caused unnecessary delays.
Security operatives, including the police, army, FRSC, NSCDC, and DSS, have been placed on standby to manage traffic and maintain safety.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Anselm Ali, speaking on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, reiterated the police command’s readiness:
“We will ensure free flow of vehicular movement and protect national assets along this corridor. No trailer will be allowed to block the road. We have mapped out key areas and deployed officers accordingly.”
“FRSC officers will also maintain strict traffic discipline, while local government authorities are mobilizing hunters and vigilantes to support the operation”
The engineer overseeing the project, Engineer Frank Renzo, confirmed that their immediate target is to create an 8–9 km free-flow route for motorists.
“The traffic will be smooth. That is our priority at this moment,” he said.
Commander Omadara emphasized that ensuring free-flowing traffic also improves security, preventing criminals from exploiting slow-moving vehicles or bad sections of the road.
“We want people to celebrate Christmas in peace. When the roads move freely, insecurity reduces,” he noted.
The state government thanked President Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Works, and the contractors for speeding up repairs ahead of the festive rush.
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