The Federal Government has set March 31 as the deadline for the reopening of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, as part of an ongoing infrastructure upgrade across Nigeria’s South-East region.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the timeline during an inspection of key projects in Enugu, including the expressway and the Eke-Obinagu Flyover. He said the rehabilitation works are expected to significantly improve safety and ease traffic congestion on the route.
Umahi explained that the inspection forms part of a nationwide assessment of projects slated for commissioning by President Bola Tinubu ahead of May 29. He noted that several major infrastructure projects across the six geopolitical zones are being prioritised for completion within the period.
The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, once regarded as one of the most hazardous highways in the region, has historically been associated with frequent tanker accidents, fatalities, and economic disruptions. However, the minister said ongoing interventions have begun to reverse that trend.
According to him, the 107-kilometre dual carriageway is undergoing a major structural upgrade, with a significant portion being converted from asphalt to concrete pavement to enhance durability. He added that similar improvements are being extended to sections in Anambra State, particularly around the head bridge axis, where existing asphalt layers are being replaced.
Beyond reconstruction, the project also includes the installation of solar-powered street lighting and environmental measures such as tree planting to improve visibility, safety, and sustainability along the corridor.
Umahi attributed the progress on the project to the current administration’s focus on infrastructure development, noting that the level of federal presence in the South-East marks a departure from the past.
He also urged residents of the region to acknowledge the intervention while cautioning against what he described as misleading and divisive narratives surrounding government efforts.
The Federal Government expressed optimism that the ongoing works will restore confidence in the highway and boost economic activities upon its reopening.
