The federal government has approved N350 billion for the reconstruction of the Enugu-Onitsha highway, Works Minister David Umahi disclosed on Thursday. He stated that President Bola Tinubu had shown strong commitment to completing the project, which had originally been contracted for N202 billion. A 72-kilometre section of the highway is being rebuilt with reinforced concrete at a cost of about ₦150 billion, following standards similar to those on the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. The first 15 kilometres of this concrete stretch is 97 per cent complete and has been opened to traffic ahead of Easter.
An additional 18-kilometre segment is under construction toward Anambra, while a 39-kilometre portion from the River Niger Bridge axis is also ongoing. Contractors handling asphalt sections have been directed to switch to concrete for the remaining 23 kilometres due to its durability. Mr Umahi noted that concrete roads last between 50 and 100 years with minimal maintenance, unlike asphalt, which degrades over time. He said half of the entire highway will now be built with reinforced concrete, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Other road projects in the southeast are also being advanced, according to the minister. Supervisors on the project pledged completion by 2026.
