Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed that a completed 15-kilometre section of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway be opened to motorists on or before March 31, as part of efforts to ease transportation challenges in the South-East.
Umahi gave the directive during an inspection of the ongoing project on Monday, where engineers briefed him on the level of completion and readiness for phased commissioning.
Describing the road as critical to economic activities in the region, the minister said the Enugu–Onitsha corridor has long been associated with heavy congestion and frequent accidents.
“This road is one of the most important routes for the people of the South-East. There were many tanker accidents and loss of lives,” he said.
He explained that the reconstruction forms part of the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure drive, noting that the project spans about 107 kilometres on each carriageway.
Umahi reiterated his preference for concrete pavement, expressing concerns about the durability of asphalt. According to him, sections constructed with concrete are expected to last longer and reduce maintenance challenges.
He also disclosed plans to install solar-powered streetlights along the corridor to improve visibility and safety for road users.
The minister stressed that the 15-kilometre stretch must be opened before the end of March, regardless of minor pending works.
“Even if markings are not completed, the road should be opened for traffic before March 31,” he said, adding that the move would serve as part of Easter celebrations.
Umahi further noted that the project reflects the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure nationwide despite inherited financial constraints and numerous ongoing projects.
He commended the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, for supporting compensation and relocation efforts along the project corridor.
Also speaking, a resident engineer with the Federal Ministry of Works, Lawrence Ubi, said the 15-kilometre section located around the Akama axis had reached about 95 per cent completion and was already being used by motorists.
Another project engineer, Smart Ndem, added that sections of the road would be opened in phases to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.
Umahi expressed optimism that once funding issues are resolved, work on the remaining sections of the expressway would accelerate. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to connecting major routes across the country through durable road infrastructure.
