FIC Report (Abia State) – The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has lauded the efforts of Arab Contractors Nigeria Ltd for the significant progress made on the reconstruction of the Aba axis of the Port Harcourt–Enugu dual carriage expressway.
Engr. Umahi, who made the commendation during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the site yesterday, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, describing it as a testament to the federal government’s renewed commitment to infrastructural development in the South-East region.
Speaking with journalists after the inspection, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to deliver durable and economically vital road infrastructure that would stand the test of time.
“I am very pleased with the level of work being done here. The commitment shown by Arab Contractors is commendable. We want to assure the people of the South-East that this government is sincere in its promise to develop this region and bring lasting economic transformation,” Umahi said.
He urged residents of Abia State to support and trust the efforts of the federal government, emphasizing that cooperation from local communities is crucial in sustaining the momentum of such major projects.
Project Manager of Arab Contractors, Engr. Sheriff Fadel, while briefing the Minister and journalists, revealed that the Aba section of the expressway is already 95% completed, with only 4 kilometers left to be finished.
“We’ve completed all asphalting on the finished stretches and are working to ensure the remaining 4 kilometers are fully completed before the end of this year,” Fadel stated. “The rainy season has posed significant challenges, but we are committed to delivering on schedule.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for its consistent funding of the project, confirming that there were no outstanding payments hampering their operations.
“We appreciate the government for meeting its financial obligations. This has enabled us to maintain steady progress without interruption,” Fadel added.
Commuters and residents in the area have expressed joy and relief over the visible improvement in the road infrastructure. Many say the reconstructed road has already begun to ease travel and reduce vehicular damage, while others noted its potential to boost economic activities, trade, and connectivity across the South-East and South-South regions.
“This road has been a nightmare for years. We are so happy to finally see it coming to life. Businesses will thrive again, and travel will become much safer,” a commercial driver, Mr. Emeka Uzo, said.
The Port Harcourt–Enugu expressway is a major economic artery linking several states in southern Nigeria. Its reconstruction has long been a demand from stakeholders in the region, who see it as essential for trade, mobility, and regional integration.
With the current pace of work and the assurances from both government and contractors, stakeholders are optimistic that the road will be fully delivered soon, marking a significant milestone in the federal government’s Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State
13th June,2025.
