The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has described the ongoing dualisation of the Abakaliki–Afikpo–Ndibe Beach section of the Trans-Sahara Highway as a transformative infrastructure project expected to significantly strengthen Nigeria’s economy and regional trade.
Speaking during an inspection tour with officials from the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, Umahi noted that the highway is among the flagship legacy projects under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aimed at improving transportation efficiency, boosting commerce, and deepening cross-border economic integration.
He explained that the quality and pace of work on the Abakaliki–Afikpo corridor reflect the federal government’s renewed commitment to durable infrastructure capable of supporting long-term economic growth across Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries.
According to him, the strategic highway, which connects Ebonyi State through Afikpo to Ndibe Beach and extends toward Cross River, Benue, and Kogi States, is expected to unlock major economic opportunities, improve logistics, and facilitate trade routes extending to Cameroon and other parts of Central Africa.
During the inspection, Umahi also commented on a recent incident involving a private aircraft that mistakenly landed on a concrete road section under construction in Delta State. He humorously suggested that the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, should compensate the Ministry of Works for using the road as a makeshift runway.
He added that the incident highlights the exceptional strength and engineering quality of ongoing federal road projects, noting that some modern road pavements are comparable to airport runways.
Umahi further emphasized that the highway project remains a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s infrastructure development agenda, credited with driving national economic expansion through improved connectivity and reduced transportation costs.
The ECOWAS Bank delegation expressed satisfaction with the progress of infrastructure development in Nigeria, pledging continued support for projects that enhance regional trade and economic growth across member states.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
