Enugu–Onitsha Expressway to Be Ready by April 28, FG Confirms

After decades of severe deterioration, repeated public complaints, and several failed rehabilitation attempts, the Federal Government has announced April 28 as the target date for the completion of major sections of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway.

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The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, disclosed this while assessing ongoing construction work on the critical South-East corridor, expressing satisfaction with both the pace and quality of the project.

According to him, the reconstruction of the road, which links Enugu State to Onitsha in Anambra State, has reached an advanced stage, with contractors now working towards delivering key portions of the highway before the end of April.

The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway is one of the most strategic federal highways in South-East Nigeria, serving as a major commercial and transportation link between the South-East, South-South, and parts of the North.

For decades, the road had become notorious for:

• Deep potholes and eroded sections
• Prolonged travel time
• Frequent breakdowns and accidents
• Traffic gridlock, especially around rainy seasons
• Economic losses for traders and transporters

Motorists and residents along the corridor have long described the road as a “death trap,” with multiple accidents recorded over the years, often linked to poor road conditions.

Umahi said the Federal Government is pleased with the quality of construction and level of commitment shown by MTN Nigeria and its subcontractors handling key sections of the project.

He noted that unlike previous interventions that failed to deliver lasting results, the current reconstruction is being executed with stronger engineering standards aimed at ensuring durability.

According to the minister, emphasis is being placed on:

• Proper drainage systems
• Reinforced pavement layers
• Improved road width and shoulders
• Long-term resistance to flooding and erosion

He added that these measures are intended to ensure the road does not return to its former state shortly after completion.

The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway is a major route for:

• Inter-state passenger transport
• Movement of agricultural produce
• Commercial haulage between Onitsha, Enugu, Aba, Asaba, and beyond

Completion of the project is expected to significantly reduce:

• Travel time between Enugu and Onitsha
• Vehicle maintenance costs
• Accident risks associated with bad road surfaces

It is also projected to boost trade, ease logistics challenges, and improve regional connectivity across the South-East.

Road users and business operators along the corridor have welcomed the April 28 timeline with optimism, but many remain cautious due to past disappointments.

Several transport operators told RoadKing.ng that while the visible progress is encouraging, they hope the government will ensure that all critical sections not just selected portions, meet acceptable safety standards before being opened fully to traffic.

The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway has long stood as a symbol of failed infrastructure management. With the new deadline now announced, public attention is expected to intensify around:

• Final delivery timelines
• Quality of materials used
• Long-term maintenance plans
• Safety features such as signage and road markings

Road safety advocates have also called for strict post-construction monitoring to prevent premature deterioration.