Federal Government to Open Key South-East Highways Before Easter Holiday
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to open the crucial 15-kilometre stretch of the Enugu–Onitsha Highway to traffic before the Easter holiday. This strategic move is designed to alleviate transportation challenges and stimulate economic activities across Nigeria's South-East region.
Minister of Works Announces Timely Opening
During an inspection tour of ongoing federal road projects in Enugu State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed that the section of the road, which has reached an advanced stage of completion, will be opened on or before March 31. He expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work so far, noting that the opening will proceed even if finishing touches such as road markings and median curbs are not fully completed.
Umahi emphasized that this directive is part of the Federal Government's commitment to providing immediate relief to road users while ensuring long-term infrastructure durability. He highlighted that the Enugu–Onitsha and Enugu–Port Harcourt corridors are among the most strategic routes in the South-East, historically plagued by issues such as traffic congestion, tanker accidents, and deteriorating pavement conditions.
Gratitude to President Tinubu for Road Development
Umahi urged the people of the South-East zone to express gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the substantial federal road development across the region. He noted that the quantum of road construction in the area runs into trillions of naira, with the reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha Highway standing out as one of the most significant interventions by the current administration.
"This road is the most important route for the people of the South-East. Before now, there were frequent tanker accidents and loss of lives, but that is becoming a thing of the past," Umahi stated. He expressed optimism that ongoing reconstruction efforts would permanently reverse the negative trends associated with these highways.
Infrastructure Details and Safety Enhancements
The 107-kilometre dual carriageway, totaling 214 kilometres, is being partly reconstructed using concrete to ensure durability. Umahi explained, "The fact remains that about half of it is going to be done on concrete. Even if asphalt fails, at least we will still have a solid portion of the road intact." Additionally, the project includes solar-powered street lighting to improve safety along the corridor, further enhancing the travel experience for users.
This initiative underscores the government's focus on addressing critical infrastructure needs in the South-East, aiming to boost regional connectivity and economic growth during the Easter period and beyond.
