Umahi Opens Section Of Enugu– Onitsha Expressway, Seeks Southeast Support For Tinubu
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, on Thursday inaugurated a completed section of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development in the Southeast under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on April 2, 2026, Umahi recalled the previously poor condition of the road, noting that travel between Enugu and Onitsha once took up to seven hours. He described the highway as one of the most critical routes in the Southeast.
The minister explained that the project, initially executed under a tax credit arrangement involving MTN Nigeria and handled by RCC, had stalled before the intervention of President Tinubu.
According to him, the President not only accelerated the project but also directed that at least 50 percent of the road be constructed using reinforced concrete, similar to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Umahi disclosed that the first 50 kilometres of the concrete pavement is about 97 percent complete, adding that the President approved the opening of the initial 15-kilometre stretch to ease travel during the Easter period.
He further highlighted several ongoing and completed road projects across the Southeast, including the Aba–Ikot Ekpene Road, Umuahia–Aba Road, Owerri–Aba Road, and sections of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway. He also referenced the Second Niger Bridge bypass and other major infrastructure projects aimed at improving regional connectivity.
On regional development, Umahi said the Southeast is benefiting significantly from the current administration, dismissing claims of marginalisation. He pointed to key federal appointments and infrastructure investments as evidence of increased inclusion.
The minister, however, urged political leaders and residents of the region to support President Tinubu, stressing the need for strategic alignment to ensure the completion of ongoing projects.
He specifically called on the Southeast to deliver up to 80 percent of its votes to the President in the next election, noting that such support would strengthen the region’s position in national negotiations.
Umahi also encouraged unity among political leaders, warning against divisive politics and emphasizing that cooperation across regions remains key to achieving long-term political goals.
On the broader economy, the minister acknowledged current challenges but maintained that the administration is taking steps to stabilise the situation, particularly in response to global developments affecting fuel and economic conditions.
He concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to completing critical infrastructure projects in the Southeast, including plans for solar lighting and enhanced road architecture along the Enugu–Onitsha corridor.
