In a reassuring update that signals renewed hope for travellers and businesses across the South East and South South regions, the Federal Controller of Works in Abia State, Engr. Chidi Uwaeziozi, has announced that the reconstruction of the Aba axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway has reached an impressive 79.15% completion.

This revelation came during his latest on-site inspection, where he answered key questions about the pace of work, potential obstacles, and the project’s likelihood of meeting its commissioning deadline.

What emerged was a compelling story of determination, meticulous supervision, and determined commitment to national infrastructure renewal.

Engr. Uwaeziozi described the current level of progress as “a major improvement” compared to what was recorded during the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi’s, visit on 31st October 2025.

According to him, the contractor has “achieved remarkable milestones over the past month,” thanks to improved project management and sustained monitoring from the Ministry.

Even though the first two weeks of November were drenched in heavy rainfall, temporarily slowing construction, work momentum never stalled. Instead, the pace accelerated once conditions improved.

“Despite the rains, the contractor delivered substantial work. With what I’ve seen today, I’m optimistic all our year-end targets will be achieved,” the Controller stated.

When asked whether any sections of the project still posed serious challenges to the commissioning deadline, the Controller was clear and confident:

“There are no obstacles strong enough to disrupt this project. The only issue identified is the relocation of an electric pole along the construction corridor.”

He explained that discussions with Geometric Power, Aba, were already in progress. A joint site visit has been scheduled to ensure power lines are relocated before the contractor reaches that segment as a proactive move to prevent delays.

On the question of how frequently he receives progress updates, Engr. Uwaeziozi revealed that he maintains daily communication with the contractor.

“I receive daily updates and submit weekly reports to the Honourable Minister. This ensures transparency, accountability, and real-time oversight.”

This level of monitoring, he noted, is one of the reasons the project has stayed firmly on track.

Responding to whether the current pace aligned with the project’s timeline, the Controller affirmed that the speed of work is satisfactory and in line with expectations, especially considering the weather-related interruptions earlier in the month.

“From what I’ve seen today, the pace is commendable. We are well within schedule,” he assured.

At 79.15% completion and accelerating, the reconstruction of the Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway is set to transform transportation, stimulate trade, and enhance mobility for millions across the region.

The once-distressed corridor now stands as a symbol of effective oversight, strong contractor performance, and the Federal Ministry of Works’ resolve to deliver quality infrastructure within deadline.

With optimism in his voice and confidence in the project’s trajectory, Engr. Uwaeziozi left the site with one clear message:

“This project is moving, and we will deliver it as promised.”

As part of preparations for the 2025 International Youth Day celebration, the Abia State Government has rolled out a series of impactful initiatives aimed at empowering young people and transforming the state’s infrastructure.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, announced during the weekly  briefing in Umuahia that the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, in collaboration with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, is set to host a week-long celebration from August 6–12. Activities include a Youth Assembly, Symposium, and Interstate Youth Exchange Visits.

In line with youth empowerment, 1,200 Abia youths have been onboarded into the second cohort of the Fashion Future Skills Acquisition Programme in garments and leather works. The programme, supported by over $3 million from the MasterCard Foundation, is part of a strategic partnership between the state government and Ethnocentric Ltd.

The government also launched the Abia Creative Talent Hunt, a bold initiative to discover and support local talents in music and innovation.

In a major boost to transportation, the Executive Council approved an increase in the number of electric buses to be procured from 20 to 40, with charging stations rising from 10 to 20. The first batch of 20 buses is expected in November, with 12 designated for Aba, 8 for Umuahia, and some later serving the Ohafia–Bende axis. Bus terminals and shelters are currently under construction in key cities.

Inclusion remains a priority as the state has procured a wheelchair-accessible bus to support physically challenged athletes ahead of the International Sports Championship, set to hold from September 3 to October 12, 2025.

Prince Kanu also disclosed that Abia-born Falconets who recently returned to their European clubs will be specially received by Governor Alex Otti later this year.