Reno Omokri in Kaduna, hails security, road works on Kaduna-Abuja expressway

By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna

http://www.newsportng.com.ng Former presidential aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, has lauded the improved security and ongoing reconstruction works on the Kaduna-Abuja expressway, describing the development as a major confidence booster for road users.

Omokri, who traveled the corridor alongside Nollywood actor Wale Ojo, said their journey was deliberately undertaken to demonstrate that the highway, once notorious for bandit attacks, is now safe.

“I have people in Abuja and Kaduna who are politically opposed to me, some of whom would wish the worst for me. Yet, I am here. That should tell Nigerians that the road is safe,” Omokri said.

He noted the visible presence of military outposts at close intervals along the road, adding that the ongoing reconstruction reflects a stronger commitment to infrastructure delivery. According to him, the government reassigned the project to a new contractor after the initial firm failed to meet deadlines, and work is now progressing from the Zuba axis.

Omokri explained that reinforced concrete and steel are being deployed to ensure the road lasts for about 50 years. While completed stretches have been made smooth, he acknowledged that some unfinished portions still require attention.

He further disclosed that Ojo’s forthcoming film, Lagos Heist, will feature car chase scenes on the expressway to highlight the improved state of the road.

Speaking on the project, Wale Ojo said filming in the North for the first time is significant for national unity. “I have filmed across the country but never in the North. I chose to do this to promote unity among Nigerians. I would not bring over 100 crew members and more than 15 cars here if I was not convinced of the security. What I have seen gives me confidence,” he said.

For Yusuf Kanhu, a Kaduna resident, the transformation of the Kaduna-Abuja corridor signals a new phase of leadership and security. He recalled that between 2015 and 2023, insecurity and divisive politics left many residents traumatized.

“We had a leader in the past who, instead of calming the situation, made statements that fueled chaos. It created fear and division across Kaduna,” Kanhu said.

He added that with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level and Governor Uba Sani in Kaduna State, there has been a visible shift. “Today, work is moving fast on the road and security agencies are doing well to protect lives. People can now travel with confidence, businesses are picking up, and the economy is getting a boost,” he stressed.

The Kaduna-Abuja expressway remains one of Nigeria’s most strategic economic corridors, and its revival in terms of security and infrastructure is seen as vital to national development.