By Amaka Okafor
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has applauded President Bola Tinubu for what he described as unprecedented infrastructural investment in the South-East, while warning contractors handling the multi-billion-naira Trans-Saharan Highway project against compromising engineering standards.
The governor gave the warning on Tuesday during an inspection of the 118-kilometre highway stretching from Ndibe Bridge in Afikpo through Abaomege in Onicha, Onueke, Ezza South, Ukwuachi, Ezza North, Ishieke and Mbeke in Ebonyi Local Government Area to Gboko in Benue State. He particularly inspected the proposed flyover at Ukwuachi, designed to ease traffic congestion and improve vehicular movement.
Expressing appreciation to President Tinubu, Nwifuru said the Federal Government had begun rewriting the history of infrastructure development in the South-East through landmark projects across the region.
“I am very excited about the activities of Mr. President, especially in the area of infrastructure. He knows and understands that the sole responsibility of government is to provide basic amenities, and that is exactly what Mr. President is doing for us in Ebonyi State and the South-East,” the governor said.
He added, “Sincerely, the people of Ebonyi State are very grateful. The President has not only shown capacity but has shown love for us.”
The governor assured the contractors of the state government’s support in addressing issues that could delay the project, particularly in the area of evaluation and compensation. “When it comes to evaluation, our people are very cooperative. We will help you in this regard,” he stated.
Nwifuru, however, insisted that the quality of work must not be compromised, directing Infouest Construction Company Limited to strictly comply with approved engineering designs and specifications. He warned that poor concrete mixtures, leakages, substandard execution and diversion of project funds would not be tolerated.
He also used the occasion to renew his call on the people of the South-East to close ranks and support President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, maintaining that the administration had demonstrated genuine commitment to the region through strategic infrastructure projects.
Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Ebonyi State, Engr. Maxwell Okoha, explained that the flyover components of the Trans-Saharan Highway were deliberately introduced to decongest traffic, improve road safety and enhance transportation.
The Managing Director of Infouest Construction Company Limited, Mr. Mustapha Mohammad, assured the governor that the firm would deploy every necessary resource to deliver the project in line with approved standards and within schedule.
