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Daniel Adaji
The Federal Government on Wednesday, flagged off the construction of the Abakaliki-Abuja Highway aimed at improving infrastructure and economic growth in the South-East region.
The ceremony, held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, was led by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders, all of whom hailed the project as a milestone in national development.
Director of Press at the Ministry of Works, Mohammed Ahmed disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.
Governor Nwifuru described the 118.85-kilometre highway as a historic investment that will improve connectivity, drive commerce, and foster unity.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, said the project is not only significant for its economic potential but also as a symbol of inclusion, noting that this is the first time a South-Easterner has been appointed as Minister of Works.
Umahi also reaffirmed his focus on national service, urging leaders across the South-East to unite in support of President Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda.
He highlighted other recent road projects flagged off in Kaduna, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom as evidence of the administration’s balanced approach to development.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, echoed the message of unity, stating that the highway project reflects the government’s commitment to “One Nigeria.”
He emphasized that every region, including the South-East, has a stake in the Road Legacy Projects.
Commissioner for Works in Ebonyi, Stanley Mbam, described the project as a long-awaited dream. He assured the public of quality delivery and continuous collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works to meet deadlines and maintain standards.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Olufunsho Adebiyi, stressed the critical role of road infrastructure in reducing accidents and stimulating economic activity. He called on the people of Ebonyi to support the project through to completion.