Nkechinyere Ewa, Abakaliki
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has said the Federal Government’s ongoing investment in road infrastructure is creating thousands of jobs and stimulating economic activities across the country, describing the projects as a major pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda.
Umahi stated this on Friday while inspecting the Ebonyi section of the Cross River–Abuja Super Highway, one of the Federal Government’s legacy road projects.
The minister said the construction projects were providing employment opportunities for engineers, artisans, transporters, food vendors and suppliers of construction materials, while also boosting the fortunes of cement manufacturers through the use of reinforced concrete pavement.
According to him, the road projects are contributing to economic recovery by supporting businesses and increasing commercial activities in communities along the project corridors.
He explained that the introduction of reinforced concrete technology was not only intended to ensure durable roads but also to deepen local industrial growth by increasing demand for cement and other locally sourced construction materials.
Umahi defended the Federal Government’s borrowing policy, saying funds obtained through loans were being invested in capital projects that would deliver long-term economic benefits.
“The President is not borrowing to pay salaries or buy vehicles. He is borrowing to build infrastructure that will benefit generations of Nigerians. Every developing nation borrows to finance critical infrastructure,” he said.
The minister disclosed that the first section of the Cross River–Abuja Super Highway, measuring about 125 kilometres, was nearing completion, while work had commenced on the second section after the Federal Government released 30 per cent mobilisation funds to the contractor.
He directed the contractors to recruit more workers from host communities to ensure residents benefit directly from the project through employment and improved livelihoods.
Umahi expressed confidence that the highway would transform transportation by significantly reducing travel time between the Southeast and the Federal Capital Territory when completed.
He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to completing all legacy road projects initiated by the Tinubu administration, saying none of the ongoing projects would be abandoned.
On the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, the minister dismissed allegations that the road alignment was altered to favour private interests, explaining that engineering and geotechnical studies necessitated adjustments because parts of the original route were unsuitable for construction.
He further announced that the Federal Government would carry out remedial work on the flood-damaged federal road in Ondo State by redesigning and reconstructing its drainage system to prevent future flooding.
Speaking on the 2027 general election, Umahi urged the people of the Southeast to support President Tinubu’s re-election, arguing that the region had received unprecedented federal infrastructure projects under the current administration.
He also called for issue-based politics, noting that the Southeast should pursue strategic political engagement while respecting divergent political opinions.