Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027, arguing that the administration's infrastructure achievements warrant public recognition. Speaking on Thursday, August 6, during an inspection tour of the Makurdi–Otukpo–Obollo-Afor–Enugu expressway, Onanuga highlighted the tangible benefits of the ongoing road project, which he said is already improving travel and connectivity across multiple states.
The tour, led by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Presidential Media Team, showcased completed and ongoing federal projects in Benue State. Onanuga's remarks come as the presidency seeks to bolster public confidence in Tinubu's performance ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Travel Time Reduced on Key Route
Onanuga told journalists that the road has already produced measurable results, even though construction is not yet complete. He recalled the previous state of the highway, noting that travel between Makurdi and Otukpo once took about three hours. "But now, just about one and a half hours or so, we are in Otukpo," he said, according to Vanguard.
The spokesperson emphasized the road's importance for national connectivity, stating, "This road is linking the North Central and the South East for you. If you are able to link all parts of Nigeria, it shows you that we are improving the connectivity across our states." He added that the route would facilitate both passenger movement and the transport of goods across state borders, boosting economic activity.
Project Scope and Construction Progress
The Federal Controller of Works for Benue State, Mukaila Danladi, provided details on the highway's scope. The 258-kilometre road spans four states—Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi, and Enugu—and is divided into five construction sections. Approximately 178 kilometres of the road fall within Benue State, with the inspected stretch covering 50 kilometres on each carriageway.
Danladi reported that about 86 kilometres of binder course have been laid on both carriageways. He attributed some delays to the rainy season, explaining that certain earthworks cannot proceed in wet conditions. In the meantime, contractors have shifted focus to hydraulic structures and drainage work to maintain momentum.
Funding and Completion Timeline
The project is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company, financed through a combination of a China EXIM Bank loan and Federal Government counterpart funding. Danladi confirmed that the 48-month contract remains on track, with completion expected by December 2027.
The highway is the second phase of the Abuja–Akwanga–Nasarawa–Makurdi corridor, extending the dualisation further south toward Enugu. According to NAN, the completed road is expected to improve road safety, ease the movement of agricultural produce, and support trade integration across the affected states.
Presidency Calls for Public Support
Onanuga's remarks underscored the administration's broader message: that Tinubu has delivered "great works" and deserves continued support. The presidency has been actively promoting its infrastructure agenda, with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors leading tours to showcase progress.
In a related development, the Supreme Council of the Tijaniyya worldwide offered prayers for President Tinubu, asking God to grant him good health, peace, and continued guidance in leading Nigeria. The prayers were offered during a condolence visit to the State House in Abuja on Friday, August 7, following the death of renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi. The visit was detailed in a statement by Sunday Dare, the president's special adviser on media and public communications.
As the 2027 election approaches, the presidency is clearly positioning infrastructure achievements as a key pillar of its re-election campaign. Whether this resonates with voters, particularly in the North Central and South East regions directly benefiting from the highway, remains to be seen. For now, the administration is urging Nigerians to recognize the progress being made and to stand by Tinubu.
