FG Fixes April 28 Deadline For Completion Of Enugu–Onitsha Expressway — Umahi
After decades of decay, abandoned contracts and public frustration, the Federal Government has fixed April 28 for the completion of major sections of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, signalling a decisive turnaround for one of the South-East’s most troubled highways.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this on Saturday after inspecting the ongoing reconstruction works, expressing satisfaction with both the pace and quality of delivery by MTN Nigeria and its subcontractors.
Umahi described the 107-kilometre road linking Enugu and Anambra States as a symbol of prolonged neglect, noting that successive administrations failed to tackle its deterioration until the current government intervened.
“This is a very problematic road. The past eight governments never worked on it. But by the audacity and vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this abnormal situation is finally coming to an end,” the minister said.
The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway is being reconstructed under the Federal Government’s tax-credit scheme, with MTN Nigeria initially awarded the project at a cost of ₦202 billion. Umahi revealed that MTN had already executed works worth about ₦50 billion before economic realities—including the floating of the naira and fuel subsidy removal—necessitated a project review.
He explained that construction is being carried out in partnership with Nigercat, RCC, and SKC, with about 72 kilometres currently under active construction across four sections.
According to Umahi, two sections measuring 15 kilometres and 18 kilometres are being built using reinforced concrete pavement, while the remaining sections will be completed with asphalt surfacing.
“I can confirm that within the next two weeks, the 15-kilometre carriageway will be completed, with only the shoulders left,” he said.
The minister also disclosed that the Federal Government is considering awarding SKC a separate contract to install solar-powered streetlights along the entire 107-kilometre corridor, except in areas already covered by the Anambra State Government.
Umahi said the completed project would permanently ease the hardship endured by motorists, commuters and host communities for years, while boosting economic activity and safety along the busy transport corridor.
“This project will be one to behold, and the credit goes entirely to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the South-East,” he added.