Federal Government Pushes Ahead With Abia Roads As 6 Projects Progress, Umuahia–Aba Expressway Nears Completion
The Federal Government has sustained momentum on road infrastructure in Abia State, with six out of 13 federal projects currently active, while the reconstruction of the strategic Umuahia–Aba section of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway nears completion.
The Federal Controller of Works in Abia State, Chidi Uwaeziozi, disclosed this while conducting journalists on an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Aba.
According to him, six federal road projects across the state have contractors actively working on-site, while seven others remain stalled due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite these setbacks, he emphasized that the Federal Government remains committed to completing all projects.
Focusing on the critical Umuahia–Aba axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, Chidi Uwaeziozi revealed that the project has reached over 90 percent completion, with substantial progress recorded along the corridor.
He noted that out of the 56.1-kilometre stretch from Umuahia Tower to Alaoji, about 51.8 kilometres have been completed, leaving only about 4.3 kilometres outstanding.
Providing technical insight, he explained that the section from Umuahia Tower to Osisioma Flyover has been constructed as a dual carriageway, while the stretch from Osisioma Flyover to Alaoji features a four-lane configuration. This design, he said, allows for smooth intercity travel on the main carriageway while accommodating local traffic through service lanes.
He further disclosed that the Enugu-bound carriageway from Abia Tower to Osisioma Flyover has been fully completed, while work is ongoing on the Port Harcourt-bound lane, with only the wearing course left to be applied in some sections.
Addressing concerns about project timelines, Chidi Uwaeziozi expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, noting that minor challenges particularly weather-related disruptions have not significantly derailed progress.
He added that engineers adopted a concrete pavement design in parts of the project to enhance durability and improve load-bearing capacity, especially given the heavy traffic expected on the route.
On quality assurance, the Controller affirmed that materials and workmanship meet federal standards, stressing that strict supervision mechanisms are in place to ensure compliance.
He commended the contractors for the quality of execution and lauded the Federal Government for providing the necessary funding to sustain the project.
When completed, he said, the expressway will significantly reduce travel time, improve safety, and boost economic activities along the corridor, strengthening connectivity within Abia State and across the South-East and South-South regions.
