The Federal Government has revealed that the comprehensive reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha dual carriageway will now carry a total price tag of 350 billion naira. This update was shared by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, during a recent inspection and inauguration of several completed portions of the highway. The Minister noted that the project is a clear reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s determination to fix critical infrastructure in the region.
The government recently reviewed the original contract, which was initially valued at 202 billion naira. As part of this overhaul, a specific 72-kilometre stretch has been earmarked for reconstruction using reinforced concrete pavement. This particular section alone is estimated to cost 150 billion naira and is being built to the same high durability standards seen on the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway.
The Minister confirmed that the first 15 kilometres of this concrete section are nearly finished, reaching about 97 percent completion. In a move to ease travel for commuters during the Easter celebrations, this portion of the road is currently being opened to traffic. Meanwhile, work is progressing on other segments, including an 18-kilometre stretch heading toward Anambra and another 39-kilometre section starting from the River Niger Bridge axis.
One of the significant shifts in the project’s execution is the transition from asphalt to concrete. Minister Umahi explained that contractors previously assigned to asphalt sections have been instructed to adopt the concrete standard for the remaining 23 kilometres. He pointed out that while asphalt often fails over time, reinforced concrete can last between 50 and 100 years with very little maintenance. By the time the project is finished, half of the entire highway will be made of reinforced concrete, a move intended to save long-term costs and improve road lifespan.
During the tour, the Minister praised the President’s commitment to changing the infrastructural narrative of the South East, listing several other road projects currently under construction across the zone. The project supervisors also expressed their gratitude for the federal government’s consistent support and reassured the public that they are working hard to meet the final completion deadline set for 2026.
