The Federal Government has confirmed plans to open a completed 15-kilometre section of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway to motorists before Easter, aiming to ease traffic congestion and stimulate economic activity across Nigeria’s South-East.
Speaking during an inspection tour in Enugu, Minister of Works David Umahi said the move forms part of a broader strategy to fast-track key road projects nationwide.
Road project set for commissioning
According to Umahi, the newly completed stretch will improve travel time and reduce bottlenecks along one of the region’s busiest corridors.
He emphasized that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure across all regions.
“There is no discrimination. The same standard applied elsewhere is being delivered here,” the minister stated.
Nationwide tour to fast-track delivery
Meanwhile, the inspection in Enugu is part of a nationwide assessment across the six geopolitical zones. The goal is to identify projects ready for commissioning ahead of May 29.
As a result, several critical road projects are now being prioritised for completion and public use.
Umahi flags inherited N13 trillion debt
However, the minister also revealed that the current administration inherited over N13 trillion in liabilities alongside more than 2,000 ongoing road projects.
He noted that these financial constraints initially slowed progress. Nevertheless, he stressed that the government remains focused on completing strategic infrastructure.
“You cannot travel for an hour without encountering bad roads—but that is changing,” Umahi said.
Key routes undergoing transformation
In addition to the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, the minister highlighted ongoing work on the Enugu–Port Harcourt highway, a major economic route spanning about 214 kilometres.
Importantly, the government is redesigning sections of the road to include concrete pavement, replacing traditional asphalt in some areas to improve durability.
State support boosts progress
Umahi also acknowledged the role of Peter Mbah, who supported compensation efforts and relocation of utilities along the corridor.
According to him, over 90% of compensation payments have already been completed, helping to remove major bottlenecks affecting construction.
Funding delays still a concern
Despite visible progress, the minister admitted that delayed payments to contractors have slowed some aspects of the work.
“If contractors are not paid, work slows. Once funds are released, progress will accelerate,” he explained.
Economic impact and outlook
Ultimately, the government expects these road projects to significantly improve mobility, reduce travel risks, and unlock economic opportunities across the South-East.
For more updates on federal infrastructure projects, visit the Federal Ministry of Works Nigeria.
The bigger picture
As Nigeria continues to tackle infrastructure deficits, projects like the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway highlight a renewed push toward modern, durable, and economically impactful road networks.
With commissioning set before Easter, attention now turns to timely delivery and sustained funding to maintain momentum.
