The Nnamdi Azikiwe Western By-pass in Kaduna is now 65% complete, with the remaining 35% expected to progress faster, according to contractor Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company.
Engr. Nasiru Abdulkadir Dantata, Executive Director of the firm, said in an interview that the left lane from Command Junction through Mando to Kawo bridge has achieved full concrete pavement, with only minor drainage works outstanding. “From Mando to Kawo is relatively okay now,” he said, adding that work has resumed on the right-hand side from Command Junction, where approximately five kilometres have been completed.
While trailer breakdowns can cause delays, Engr. Dantata noted that prior experience along the full stretch enables the team to anticipate and mitigate issues. However, he raised concerns over speeding by tricycle and motorcycle operators competing with heavy-duty vehicles.
The 21-kilometre bypass features eight pedestrian bridges. “We expect that by the end of 2026, the right-hand side will also reach Mando, but that depends on the rainy season. What will remain in 2027 would be just Mando to Kawo – that is only one and a half kilometres. Definitely next year we will be out. In the next month, we will reach the bridge at River Kaduna,” he stated.