The Federal Government of Nigeria plans to open two crucial portions of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway in Abia State by the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone in continuing infrastructure development in the South East region.
Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, made the statement while inspecting federal road projects in Abia and visiting with Governor Alex Otti in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
According to the minister, the Umuahia-to-Aba segment, which is being managed by Arab Contractors, is scheduled to open in December 2025, while the Aba-to-Port Harcourt section will open in November 2025.
Umahi lauded Governor Otti for his collaborative attitude, particularly in resolving difficulties that had previously hampered the projects, such as the removal of dealers and rubbish from important roadways. He referred to the governor as “a man with a golden heart” and an example of how collaboration across political lines can generate quick progress.
Umahi emphasized the scope of existing initiatives, citing the Aba-Ikot Ekpene Road, Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road, and the recently awarded Afikpo Road as examples of significant federal projects altering the region’s transportation network.
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However, the minister acknowledged the funding issues encountered by the Bola Tinubu administration. The government inherited over 2,600 federal road projects valued at ₦13 trillion in 2023, which has subsequently climbed over ₦20 trillion. He encouraged states to take ownership of certain federal roadways, stressing that such efforts would not be reimbursed, but that states might toll restored roads to recuperate their costs.
Umahi reaffirmed the president’s commitment to equitable development, pointing out that the South-East receives a fair share of infrastructure spending, equivalent to other geographical zones. “We have every reason as people of the South-East, irrespective of political affiliations, to support this president who is standing with us,” according to him.
The minister stated that President Tinubu will soon visit Abia to launch finished projects along the Enugu-Port Harcourt corridor, reinforcing his commitment to improving Nigeria’s road network.
Governor Alex Otti praised the federal government’s support, calling the relationship as critical to the state’s socioeconomic development.
