Minister Umahi Orders Opening of 15km Enugu–Onitsha Expressway Section by March 31; Solar Lights to be Installed Immediately

The decades-long “nightmare” on the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway is finally nearing its end as the Federal Government prepares to open a major section of the road. On Monday, March 23, 2026, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, issued a strict directive during an inspection tour: the completed 15-kilometre stretch must be open for traffic by the end of this month.

“By the 31st of this month, this 15km must be opened,” Umahi declared. He emphasized that even if the final road markings or median gates are not perfectly in place, the road must be accessible to ease the heavy congestion and accidents that have plagued the South-East for years. The Minister described the route as the “most important” for the region and credited the “audacity and vision” of President Bola Tinubu for finally fixing what previous administrations had abandoned.

The project is a showcase for the government’s new “concrete only” policy. Unlike traditional asphalt that often fails during the rainy season, this 15km section uses reinforced concrete pavement. Engineers on-site confirmed that the road is virtually ready, with some vehicles already plying the route. To ensure the highway remains safe at night, the Minister also disclosed that the corridor would be illuminated by solar-powered streetlights starting next week.

While acknowledging that funding delays had slowed down the contractors including those funded by the MTN Tax Credit Scheme Umahi expressed optimism that the “Renewed Hope” agenda is delivering. He thanked Governor Peter Mbah for his “action-oriented” support in resolving utility and compensation issues, ensuring that the “earthmoving machines” keep working until the entire 107-kilometre dual carriageway is finished.