The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed that a completed 15-kilometre stretch of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway be opened to traffic on or before March 31, in a move aimed at easing long-standing transportation challenges in the South-East.
Speaking during an inspection of the project, Umahi described the highway as a critical economic corridor that has for years been associated with heavy traffic congestion and frequent accidents.
He noted that the ongoing reconstruction forms part of the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure drive, adding that the road spans a total of 107 kilometres on each carriageway, amounting to 214 kilometres.
The minister reiterated his preference for concrete pavement over asphalt, stressing that it offers greater durability and long-term value.
According to him, at least half of the road will be constructed using concrete to ensure resilience.
Umahi also revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights along the corridor, beginning with the initial 15-kilometre stretch to be opened.
He issued a firm directive to engineers to make the road accessible before the end of March, regardless of pending finishing touches such as lane markings or median barriers, describing the move as a form of “Easter relief” for road users.
The project has also received support from Peter Mbah, who facilitated the payment of compensation and relocation of utilities along the route.
While acknowledging that funding delays have slowed progress, Umahi expressed confidence that work would accelerate once contractors receive payments.
Officials from the Federal Ministry of Works confirmed that the 15-kilometre section, located around the Akama axis, is nearly complete and already being used by some motorists, with final adjustments ongoing to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.
The development signals renewed efforts to improve connectivity and boost economic activities across the South-East region.
