President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the end of “infrastructure marginalisation, isolation, and neglect” in Nigeria’s South-East, marking a new era of transformation for the region. At a flag-off ceremony in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, where he was represented by Governor Chief Francis Nwifuru, Tinubu underscored the national significance of the 118.85-kilometre superhighway project.
The president described the project as a transformational venture, set to reshape infrastructure across the South-East, North-Central, and South-South regions.
“This superhighway is a key project that will significantly impact the entire region. With the calibre of professionals handling this project and the visible mobilisation already in place, I am confident it will be completed successfully,” Tinubu stated.
Governor Nwifuru called the event a defining moment in Nigeria’s infrastructure history, confirming that the project would be completed swiftly and in accordance with the specified standards.
He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda is beginning to take root across the nation.
“This project is a testament to the president’s commitment to using infrastructure as a tool for national development,” Nwifuru said. He assured the president of Ebonyi State’s full support for the administration’s initiatives.
For the state, the road holds immense significance. Nwifuru explained that as a landlocked state, Ebonyi had long been hindered by poor connectivity with neighbouring regions.
“This project marks the beginning of a new chapter, one of progress, prosperity, and integration. It will open up opportunities for agriculture, trade, and education, and foster economic growth,” he said.
He further added that the project would be a game-changer for farmers, traders, students, and the local economy, providing better access to markets, reducing transportation costs, and creating employment.
“This is not just an engineering project; it is a declaration that the era of marginalisation is over,” Nwifuru concluded.
Several other state leaders also expressed their support for the project and for President Tinubu’s leadership. Minister of Works, David Umahi, praised Tinubu for being a unifier and a president for all Nigerians.
“President Tinubu has redefined the South-East’s relationship with the federal government,” Umahi said, adding that the president’s decision to appoint a South-Easterner as Minister of Works was a milestone for the region.
Umahi committed to ensuring the project’s completion within the designated time frame, stressing the importance of community support for the project’s success.
“For years, we have been marginalised, but now we have a president who is working for all regions of Nigeria,” he said.
Senator Pius Anyim, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, also commended the president for his commitment to South-East development, and former senator Azu Agboti expressed his appreciation for the inclusion of Ebonyi in the project.
Chioma Nweze, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, also lauded the president for his efforts to unite the country through infrastructure development, stating that South-East Nigeria stands with Tinubu.
The road project, which will create numerous job opportunities and boost trade and agriculture, is expected to run from Ndibe Beach in Afikpo to Mbeke Ishieke in Ebonyi Local Government Area. It is being constructed using continuous reinforced concrete pavement, a method designed to ensure durability.
The flag-off ceremony, jointly performed by Governor Nwifuru and Minister Umahi, marked a key milestone in the country’s infrastructural development.
Kindly share this news!!!