Umahi Orders Arab Contractors to Complete Enugu–Port Harcourt Road’s Abia Section by November-End

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a stern directive to Arab Contractors, the firm handling the rehabilitation of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, to complete the remaining 4.5-kilometre stretch in Abia State before the end of November.

Umahi gave the order on Friday during an inspection of the project in Aba, expressing displeasure over the slow pace of work. He warned that the Federal Government would revoke the contract if the deadline was not met.

“I am not satisfied with the progress on this 4.5-kilometre section out of the 112-kilometre road. By the end of November, the laterite, sharp sand, and concrete works must be completed. Failure to deliver will lead to contract revocation,” the minister warned.

He assured the contractors of prompt payment, emphasizing President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to honoring all financial obligations. “This administration is reliable. If we’ve paid for other sections, we will also pay for this one,” Umahi said.

The minister commended Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his dedication to infrastructure development and for supporting the President’s South-East road projects. “Governor Otti’s commitment to Abia’s development is unmatched. The President is giving special attention to South-East infrastructure,” he noted.

Umahi also praised Arab Contractors for their integrity and quality of work but directed the Federal Ministry of Works’ Controller in Abia to ensure strict supervision, adding that he would personally monitor the site weekly.

In response, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s support for the project and expressed optimism that it would be completed and commissioned by December. “With only 4.5 kilometres left, the end is in sight. I’ll personally follow up to ensure timely delivery,” Otti said.

The Zonal Manager of Arab Contractors, Mr. Mohammed Elian, disclosed that only about five per cent of the work remains, assuring the government of the company’s commitment to completing the project by December. He commended the Abia State Government for improved security and the Federal Ministry for sustained support.

According to the Federal Controller of Works in Abia, Mr. Chidi Uwaeziozi, the Enugu-bound lane of the expressway has been fully completed, while only the remaining 4.5-kilometre Port Harcourt-bound section is pending.

He expressed confidence that, with the current pace, the project would be ready for commissioning before the end of the year.