The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Works headquarters in Abuja and brought together top government officials, contractors, and stakeholders. It has been described as another milestone in President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to modernise the country’s road network and boost economic growth through strategic infrastructure investment.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, said the projects form part of the administration’s growing infrastructure legacy.

He stated, “Today is another event that adds to the great work that President Bola Tinubu is doing.”

Umahi disclosed that the Federal Government has already procured the first 123-kilometre single carriageway of the Calabar–Ebonyi–Abuja Super Highway, which runs from Calabar through Ebonyi State to the Benue border.

He added that the newly approved section extends another 173 kilometres through Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa States, terminating at the Oweto Bridge.

According to him, plans are underway to procure a second carriageway of about 300 kilometres from Ndibe Beach to Oweto in Nasarawa State, a project expected to significantly reduce travel time between the South-East and Abuja while boosting commercial activities.

Umahi said, “I want to say this without any apology: the South-East people will reciprocate what the President has done for them.”

He further noted that five companies competed for the project before INFOUEST emerged successful, stressing that due process was followed in the procurement stage, similar to other major road projects such as the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway.

The minister also provided updates on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, saying the project had moved from initial skepticism to widespread acceptance.

“When we started the 750km coastal highway, people did not believe it would become a reality,” he said.

“But today, the entire country is applauding President Bola Tinubu because the project is an economic catalyst.”

He added that by November, sections of the highway from Lagos through Ondo State would be open to traffic, while work continues on other segments across Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

Describing the coastal highway as a long-term investment, Umahi said the project is designed to last up to a century with minimal maintenance due to its durable construction.

He also commended the contractor handling parts of the project for what he described as strong delivery capacity and speed.

Addressing cost concerns, the minister explained that the average cost per kilometre stands at about N7.5 billion, citing extensive engineering works such as drainage systems, reinforced pavement, and concrete structures.

He further revealed growing investor interest in completed sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting that private operators are already seeking tolling opportunities to recover investments.

Umahi also highlighted other ongoing projects, including the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway and the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Road, stressing that the administration’s infrastructure drive covers all geopolitical zones.

He explained that the government is adopting concrete pavement for durability and long-term value, replacing earlier asphalt designs in some projects.

The ministry confirmed that funding will follow a 30 percent government counterpart contribution, with 70 percent expected from loans, while tolling and strategic land use will support repayment.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Works, the signing marks the formal transition from procurement to full project execution.

On behalf of the contractors, HITEC Construction Company assured the Federal Government of timely delivery, pledging to complete the projects within the stipulated timeframe and maintain high-quality standards.