Works minister David Umahi says a critical 15-kilometre stretch of the Enugu–Onitsha highway will be available for motorists this Easter as a special package.

Mr Umahi made this known on Monday in Enugu while inspecting the stretch of the road, noting that its satisfactory rating lends credence to the assurance.

The minister said the section of the road would be put to use by the end of March, even if finishing touches, such as markings and median kerbs, are not completed.

“We have directed the contractor to ensure the usage of that section within that period, and this is part of our commitment to provide immediate relief to road users.

“We are also ensuring long-term infrastructural durability, as the road is among the most strategic routes in the southeast zone of the country,” he said.

He said that roads in the zone have been plagued by traffic congestion, accidents and deteriorating pavement conditions.

“We are optimistic that the ongoing reconstruction efforts will permanently reverse the trend in line with President Bola Tinubu’s love and affection for the zone.

“We, however, acknowledge inherited road liabilities estimated at over N13 trillion across more than 2,000 projects across the country as of May 2023.

“This has posed significant challenges, but the president has directed that payments be prioritised for ongoing projects, including those in the South-East,” he said.

Mr Umahi admitted that delayed payments have affected contractors’ pace of work but expressed confidence that progress would accelerate once funds are disbursed.

“You cannot expect optimal performance when contractors are unpaid, but we appreciate their continued trust in government.

“I commend Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu for supporting the project, particularly offsetting the compensation for those affected by the flyover at the Abakpa junction axis of the Enugu–Abakaliki highway.

“The Enugu government, aside from the compensation, facilitated the relocation of critical utilities such as high-tension electrical power lines and water pipelines, among others,” he said.

The resident engineer of the Enugu–Onitsha express road project, Lawrence Ubi, confirmed that the 15-kilometre section is about 95 per cent completed.

“The work is structurally sound and has met required engineering standards.

“The section will be ready for use at the agreed period, and we thank the federal government for all its assistance,” he said. 

(NAN)