President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday officially flagged-off the construction of the 465-kilometre Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue-Nasarawa-Abuja Super Highway, a major infrastructure initiative expected to significantly improve connectivity across several states in Nigeria. The event took place at Amuro Mgbom Primary School in Afikpo, Ebonyi State.
Representing the president at the ceremony, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru conveyed Tinubu’s appreciation to the people of the South-East for their ongoing support. He urged them to remain committed to the national development agenda, while assuring that the highway project will be delivered on schedule and according to set standards.
In his remarks, Governor Nwifuru noted the strategic importance of the road project to the region. He described it as a vital move that could drive economic growth and improve lives across the state and beyond.
“This project reflects the president’s resolve to deploy infrastructure as a tool for national development and growth,” Nwifuru stated. “We shall remain resolute in our support to the administration of Mr President as a way of reciprocating this gesture.”
He also noted that the road’s impact would be wide-ranging, particularly for farmers, traders, and students. According to him, the highway will open up the state to more markets, reduce transportation costs, and increase safety for those commuting to schools and other institutions. “This project is a game-changer,” the governor added.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, described the highway as one of President Tinubu’s legacy projects that stretches across various regions. He called for local support to ensure smooth execution of the construction.
“Ebonyi has been so marginalized… but President Tinubu within a short period of time has changed the narrative for the better,” Umahi said. He noted that the current administration has shown unprecedented commitment to the South-East, citing the appointment of a minister from the region and major federal projects.
Also present at the ceremony were political leaders who used the occasion to voice their backing for Tinubu. Senator Pius Anyim, former SGF, thanked the president for his attention to the South-East and promised continued support from the region. Former Senator Azu Agboti echoed similar sentiments, encouraging the region to support the president in future elections as a show of gratitude.
Chioma Nweze, the president’s aide on community engagement, stated that the project is part of a nationwide infrastructure drive aimed at promoting unity and economic development. She also appreciated Governor Nwifuru for creating a welcoming environment for federal projects in Ebonyi.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Olufumsho Adebiyi, spoke on the economic benefits, noting the highway’s role in enhancing trade, agriculture, and job creation. He urged residents to cooperate with construction teams throughout the project’s duration.
Engineer Bede Obiora, representing the contractors, promised that the highway would be built to top specifications. He said the Ebonyi stretch of the road, covering 123 kilometres, would run from Ndibe Beach in Afikpo to Mbeke Ishieke in Ebonyi LGA, using a reinforced concrete design for durability.
