Minister Umahi Expresses Strong Displeasure Over Slow Pace of Enugu-Onitsha Expressway Work, Issues Stern Warning

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has expressed profound dissatisfaction and “fumed” over the snail’s pace of ongoing construction work on the critical Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. His strong rebuke came during an unscheduled inspection tour of the road project, particularly the Anambra section, where he issued a stern warning to the contractors to accelerate progress or face severe consequences.

Umahi, known for his hands-on approach to project oversight, made his displeasure clear on Sunday, June 15, 2025, after personally assessing the work done so far on the strategic federal highway. He observed significant delays and an apparent lack of commitment from the contractors handling various sections of the dual carriageway.

The Minister specifically highlighted the poor progress of Messrs RCC, the contractor handling Section Two, comprising the Lokpanta-Umuahia-Aba-Port Harcourt stretch. He expressed grave concerns that despite receiving substantial payments, the pace of work did not align with the disbursed funds. Umahi indicated that the contract for this section might be revisited if the contractor fails to demonstrate serious commitment.

During his inspection, Umahi reiterated the Federal Government’s zero tolerance for project abandonment and substandard work. He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is resolute in delivering quality infrastructure to Nigerians within stipulated timelines.

The Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, a vital economic artery connecting the Southeast region to other parts of Nigeria, has been a subject of public outcry for years due to its dilapidated state and prolonged construction. The road, which spans several states, is crucial for trade, transportation, and agricultural produce movement. Its poor condition has led to increased travel time, higher transportation costs, and numerous accidents.

Umahi’s recent inspection is part of a broader directive from the Ministry of Works to rigorously monitor all ongoing federal road projects nationwide. The Minister has consistently warned contractors about delays, poor quality, and the consequences of defaulting on their contractual obligations. He has previously indicated that non-performing contractors could face contract termination and blacklisting.

While contractors often cite challenges such as insecurity, heavy rainfall, funding disbursement delays, and community disruptions as reasons for slow progress, Umahi’s recent strong stance suggests the Ministry is running out of patience with explanations that do not translate into visible progress on site. The Minister’s visit puts immense pressure on the contractors to quickly mobilize resources and significantly ramp up construction activities on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway to avoid potential sanctions.