THE Federal Government’s push for equitable infrastructure development across all regions received a major boost with the official flag-off of the Abakaliki-Abuja Highway Project in Ebonyi State on Wednesday.
The event, held in Abakaliki, drew high-ranking Federal and State officials, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders who hailed the project as a transformative initiative for transportation, trade, and economic growth in the South East.
Delivering his remarks, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his inclusive leadership and a renewed commitment to the South East in the national development agenda. He described the project as a historic investment that will foster connectivity, boost commerce, and bring lasting socio-economic benefits to the region.
Governor Nwifuru pledged the full cooperation and support of the Ebonyi State Government to the successful implementation of the project and its timely completion. He noted that the Ebonyi people are known for loyalty, resilience, and hard work, and the project stands as a strong symbol of unity, and equity, as well as a signature of the Renewed Hope Administration.
According to him, the highway is a clear message that the South East region has not been forgotten.
The Minister of Works, Engr. (Sen.) David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, in his address, thanked the people of Ebonyi State for their warm reception and praised Governor Nwifuru for his sterling leadership. He described the impressive turnout as a demonstration of the people’s commitment to national progress and unity.
The Minister recounted recent flag-off ceremonies in Kaduna, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States, and disclosed that the Ebonyi event held a special significance.
He commended President Tinubu for appointing a South-Easterner as Minister of Works for the first time and for including the South-East in a flagship national project of this magnitude – something the region had long been denied.
Engr. Umahi dismissed political distractions and reiterated that his support for Governor Nwifuru is grounded in performance and loyalty to the APC.
He clarified that he is fully focused on his national assignment and has left local politics behind to deliver impactful projects across Nigeria. He called on the South-East leaders, regardless of political affiliations, to unite behind President Tinubu in supporting ongoing massive infrastructure development.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq. affirmed that President Tinubu holds the region close to his heart, emphasising that the administration is committed to the principle of “One Nigeria.”
He further noted that the inclusion of the region in the Road Legacy Projects is a testament to the Federal Government’s prioritisation of equity and inclusiveness. He thanked members of the House of Representatives and all stakeholders for their support in advancing national infrastructure development.
In a Goodwill Message, on behalf of the Ebonyi State Ministry of Works, the Honourable Commissioner, Engr. Stanley Mbam described the project as a dream come true.
He emphasised that the highway will serve generations to come, highlighting that the 118.85-kilometre alignment has been awarded to a reputable construction firm.
Engr. Mbam appreciated the Honourable Minister of Works for championing the project and pledged continuous collaboration to ensure quality, adherence to standards, and timely delivery. He emphasised the project’s potential to boost local economies, transportation, and national connectivity.
Other goodwill messages expressed profound appreciation for the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure in the South East, with dignitaries thanking the Honourable Minister and, especially, President Tinubu for addressing long-standing transportation challenges.
Messages were delivered by notable personalities including the former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, SSA-President on Community Engagement, South East Zone, Barr. Chioma Nweze and former Governor Martins Elechi.
In his welcome address, earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, FNSE saluted all stakeholders for their presence and support.
He stressed the importance of quality road infrastructure, stating that, “A good road reduces accidents, enhances mobility, and stimulates economic growth.” Engr. Adebiyi appealed to the people of Ebonyi to support the project for the benefit of their state and the country at large.
The flag off was performed by the Ebonyi State Governor, on behalf of the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. 
