Minister Of Works David Umahi Announces 350 Billion Naira Reconstruction Budget For The Strategic Enugu–Onitsha Federal Highway

Minister David Umahi reveals a 350 billion naira budget for the Enugu-Onitsha highway, featuring durable concrete pavement designed to last 100 years.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 7:37 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Daily Nigerian

A Massive Investment In Regional Connectivity

The Federal Government has formalized a significant financial commitment toward the complete overhaul of the Enugu–Onitsha federal highway, a critical artery for commerce in the South East. Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced on Thursday that the total cost for the reconstruction project is now estimated at 350 billion naira. During an inspection and inauguration of finished segments, the Minister noted that this expenditure reflects the administration's determination to deliver world class infrastructure that can withstand the heavy logistical demands of the region.

Strategic Revision Of Engineering Standards

As part of a broader shift in national infrastructure policy, the government has moved away from traditional asphalt in favor of more resilient materials. Umahi revealed that the original contract of 202 billion naira was reviewed and expanded to include 72 kilometers of reinforced concrete pavement, costing approximately 150 billion naira alone. This specific section is being constructed to the same rigorous durability standards as the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway, signaling a standardized approach to high traffic federal roads across the federation.

Concrete Pavement As A Long Term Solution

The decision to utilize reinforced concrete over asphalt is driven by the superior lifespan and lower maintenance requirements of the material. According to the Minister, while asphalt frequently fails under environmental and usage pressures, concrete roads can last between 50 and 100 years with minimal intervention. Contractors previously assigned to asphalt sections have been instructed to adopt this concrete standard for the remaining 23 kilometers of their assigned segments, ensuring that 50 percent of the entire highway benefits from this durable technology.