Nigeria’s House of Representatives has approved a $516 million external loan to support the construction of parts of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway, a major infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity across the country.
The approval was granted during plenary after lawmakers reviewed and adopted a report presented by the House Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management. The loan request was originally submitted by President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to secure funding for critical national projects. According to details presented to the House, the loan—valued at about $516.3 million, will be sourced through a syndicated financing arrangement led by Deutsche Bank. The funds are specifically earmarked for Sections 1, 1A, and 1B of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway project. In his communication to lawmakers, the President stated, “Specifically, approval is sought for the syndicated financing facility from Deutsche Bank in the total sum of US$516,333,007 for the execution of Sections 1, 1A, and 1B of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway Project.”
The Sokoto–Badagry highway is a large-scale road project expected to stretch roughly 1,000 kilometres, linking the North-West to the South-West. The route will pass through several states, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos, connecting Illela in Sokoto State to Badagry in Lagos. Government officials have described the project as a strategic investment designed to improve transportation, reduce travel time, and enhance trade across regions. By connecting key economic zones, the highway is expected to make the movement of goods and services easier while strengthening national integration.
Lawmakers did not approve the loan without conditions. The House directed relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, the Debt Management Office, and the Ministry of Works, to provide regular updates on how the funds are used. These updates are expected to come in the form of quarterly reports to ensure transparency and accountability. In addition, the House emphasized the need for strict monitoring of the project. It called for transparent procurement processes, independent audits, and continuous evaluation of progress to ensure that the project delivers value for money. The approval also integrates the loan into the Federal Government’s broader borrowing plan, which has already received legislative backing. This means the funding forms part of a structured approach to financing infrastructure development in the country.
The Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is one of several ambitious road projects under the current administration’s infrastructure agenda. If successfully executed, it is expected to boost economic activities, improve logistics, and support long-term national development goals. Overall, the House of Representatives’ decision marks a significant step toward advancing the project, though its success will largely depend on effective implementation and oversight.
