The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ordered that a 15-kilometre section of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway be opened to traffic by March 31, as part of ongoing efforts to alleviate transportation challenges in the South-East.
Umahi issued the directive during an inspection of the project on Monday, where engineers updated him on construction progress and the readiness of the road for phased commissioning.
Describing the route as vital to the region’s economy, Umahi highlighted its history of accidents and severe congestion.
“This road, Enugu–Onitsha, I think is the most important route for the people of the South-East. Every day people were talking about this road. There were a lot of tanker accidents; a lot of people died,” he said.
The minister explained that the reconstruction is part of a broader Federal Government infrastructure initiative. “It’s not only that we are rebuilding this road. It’s 107km by two, so it’s 214km from Enugu to Onitsha.
About half of it is going to be done on concrete, and I have no confidence in asphalt, and I continue to say it,” Umahi stated. He emphasized that concrete pavement would ensure long-term durability:
“By the time the asphalt fails, at least we should have 50 per cent of the road still intact. And if it fails within the second tenure of Mr President, then be assured that we will fix it with concrete.”
Umahi also revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights along the corridor. “Within the next one week, you will have solar light up to this 15 kilometres, and we will continue,” he said.
He instructed officials to ensure the road is opened before the end of March, adding, “By the 31st of this month, this 15km must be opened for traffic.
Even if it’s not marked, even if the median gates are not put, open the road before the 31st. That will be our Easter celebration.”
Highlighting the administration’s commitment to regional development, Umahi stated, “The people of the South-East ought to be very grateful to Mr President. We never had it like this.”
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He noted that despite inheriting over N13 trillion in debt and more than 2,000 ongoing projects, the government remains focused on completing nationwide road infrastructure.
Acknowledging support from Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, Umahi said the state had helped with compensation and utility relocation along the project corridor.
“I appealed to him to help us with the payment of compensation… he sprang into action and over 90 per cent has been done. He paid about N500 million, and we are expected to pay the remaining,” he stated.
Umahi admitted that funding delays had slowed progress but expressed optimism that work would accelerate once payments are made. “I am aware that this contractor has not received payment.
I will not blame them for the slow pace of work. If you don’t pay, they don’t work. As soon as they are paid, we will see accelerated work,” he said.
Resident Engineer Lawrence Ubi of the Federal Ministry of Works said the 15-kilometre stretch near the Akama axis had reached about 95 per cent completion using continuous reinforced concrete pavement.
“This section we are now is 15km… and as you can see, the road is ready to be opened. Even now, vehicles are plying on the road,” he noted.
Another engineer, Smart Ndem, added that authorities plan to open sections in phases to ensure safety for both workers and motorists.
“We are trying to tidy some areas so that traffic flow will be seamless. We will also consider safety and open sections where it is clear,” he said.
The project, Umahi affirmed, reflects the Federal Government’s broader commitment to connecting the country through durable road infrastructure, with safety, quality, and long-term usability as top priorities.