The House of Representatives has approved a $516.33 million borrowing request submitted by President Bola Tinubu to fund the first segment of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway.

The approval came during plenary overseen by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, after lawmakers reviewed the proposal through the Committee of Supply.

In his message to the House, the President described the superhighway as a major national project designed to connect the northwestern part of the country to the southwestern coast. The road, estimated at about 1,000 kilometres, will run from Illela in Sokoto State to Badagry in Lagos State, passing through Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo and Ogun states.

Tinubu said the highway is expected to stimulate economic growth by improving transportation efficiency, reducing travel time and lowering logistics costs along a key trade corridor.

He added that the project would strengthen agricultural supply chains, boost commerce, improve access to seaports and promote national cohesion by linking production zones with markets.

The financing arrangement includes a $516.33 million facility from Deutsche Bank, supported by partial guarantees from the insurance arm of the Islamic Development Bank. The Federal Government will also provide ₦265.54 billion as counterpart funding for land acquisition, compensation and supporting infrastructure.

The President noted that the design of the highway allows for future rail integration and the installation of utility corridors.

While presenting the report of the House Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management, Abdullahi El-Rasheed urged members to back the request, describing the project as vital for long-term economic development.

Following deliberations, lawmakers approved the loan, clearing the path for the commencement of the project’s first phase.