ABIA STATE, Nigeria — The Minister of Works, David Umahi, says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly to complete the reconstruction of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, one of Nigeria’s most important transport routes in the South-East and South-South regions.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during an inspection tour of the project site on Monday, Umahi said the president has given “clear and consistent instructions” to ensure the highway is delivered on schedule. The minister said the federal government expects to complete and inaugurate the Section II of the road — from Umuahia to Aba — by June 2025.

“President Tinubu has prioritized this project. He wants it completed and ready for public use by next year,” Umahi said. “We are on track. Only about two kilometers of earthwork and four kilometers of asphalt work remain.”

The minister noted that funds for the remaining work have been included in the 2024 and 2025 federal budgets. He praised the project contractor, Arab Contractors (Nig.) Ltd., for what he described as “improved responsiveness” since the new directive from the president.

Umahi also commended the Abia State government for helping to clear traders and vehicles from the construction zones, which had been delaying work in some areas. “Governor Alex Otti has been very supportive. The cooperation of the state government has made a big difference in speeding up progress,” he said.

The Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway links major cities and markets across Enugu, Abia, and Rivers states. It serves as a vital commercial route for traders, transporters, and industries moving goods between the South-East and the South-South. However, years of neglect left the road in a dangerous condition, with potholes, erosion, and traffic jams causing frequent accidents.

Reconstruction of the road began under the previous administration but has faced funding and contractual challenges. When President Tinubu took office, Umahi vowed to make the project a top priority under the government’s “Renewed Hope” infrastructure agenda.

In January, the minister warned contractors handling federal highways that non-performance would no longer be tolerated. He said Tinubu’s administration is determined to deliver quality roads that can last for decades, not just temporary repairs.

“The president is very firm about road quality,” Umahi said. “He doesn’t want shortcuts or substandard materials. What we are building now will serve this region for the next 50 years if properly maintained.”

Umahi explained that the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway is part of a broader plan to upgrade major federal roads, including those connecting the South-East to the North and West. “We are working to open up the economy through better connectivity. Good roads will attract investment and make life easier for citizens,” he said.

Residents along the corridor have expressed optimism about the renewed pace of work. Transport unions say travel time between Enugu and Port Harcourt has already improved on completed sections, and businesses expect lower transportation costs once the full road is open.

Still, challenges remain. Heavy rains and logistics issues could delay the June 2025 completion target. Umahi said the ministry is monitoring progress weekly to ensure deadlines are met.

“This project will not be abandoned again,” he assured. “President Tinubu’s commitment is total. Nigerians will soon see the results.”

When completed, the expressway is expected to boost trade, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and enhance safety for millions of road users. It will also symbolize progress in the federal government’s promise to revitalize infrastructure nationwide.

Analysts say successful delivery of the road could strengthen the Tinubu administration’s standing in the South-East, where residents have often complained of neglect in federal projects. For many, the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway has become a test case of whether the “Renewed Hope” agenda can translate into real change.

If the federal government meets its June 2025 target, the expressway’s reopening could mark one of the administration’s major infrastructure milestones — a sign that promises are being turned into progress on the ground.