Governor Francis Nwifuru has charged contractors handling the trans-Saharan highway project to strictly adhere to approved engineering standards and specifications to ensure quality delivery.

Mr Nwifuru gave the charge on Tuesday during an inspection of the 118-kilometre highway stretching from Ndibe Bridge in Afikpo through Onicha, Ezza South, Ezza North and Ebonyi council areas to Gboko in Benue.

Speaking at the proposed flyover site in Ukwuachi, he said that the project would ease traffic congestion and improve the movement of commuters and other road users.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for approving major infrastructure projects in the South-East, describing them as a significant boost to the region’s development.

According to him, the president has demonstrated commitment to providing critical infrastructure and improving the welfare of the people.

He assured the contractors of the state’s cooperation, particularly in addressing issues relating to project implementation and evaluation to ensure timely completion.

Mr Nwifuru, however, warned against substandard work, insisting that the project must comply with approved designs and engineering specifications.

He also called on the people of the South-East to support Mr Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in the region.

Maxwell Okoha, the federal controller of works in Ebonyi, said that the flyover component was designed to decongest traffic, enhance road safety and improve transportation along the corridor.

Mustapha Mohammad, the managing director of Infouest Construction Company, assured the governor that the company would adhere to the required standards and deliver the project as scheduled.

(NAN)