FG approves N350Bn for Enugu–Onitsha highway reconstruction

The Federal Government on Thursday said that the reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha Federal Highway will cost N350Bn.

The Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, disclosed this while inaugurating completed portions of the road.

He said that Pres. Bola Tinubu has demonstrated unrivalled resolve to complete the project.

Umahi stated that the Federal Government reviewed the original N202Bn contract for the road and retained part of it.

“The FG further carved out a 72km stretch for reconstruction using reinforced concrete pavement, and this section costs about N150Bn.

“This section is being executed to higher durability standards similar to those used on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway,” he said.

The minister said that the first 15km of the reinforced concrete section is about 97% completed.

“This section is being opened to traffic to ease movement during the Easter celebration.

“Another 18km stretch is under construction towards Anambra, while a separate 39km segment extending from the River Niger Bridge axis is also ongoing,” he said.

He further stated that contractors handling asphalt portions of the road have been directed to adopt the same concrete standard for the remaining 23km.

“This is due to the longer lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements of concrete roads compared to asphalt.

“Asphalt fails over time, but concrete can last between 50 and 100 years with little or no maintenance.

“About 50% of the entire highway will be constructed using reinforced concrete, significantly improving durability and reducing long-term costs,” he said.

Umahi commended Pres. Tinubu for his resolve to change the infrastructural narrative of the South-East, highlighting other ongoing road projects across the region.