The Federal Government in its commitment to boost equitable infrastructure development, on Wednesday, has flagged off Abakaliki -Abuja Highway Project in Ebonyi State.
In a statement released by Works Ministry, revealed that the event, held in Abakaliki, drew high-ranking Federal and State officials, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders who hailed the project as a transformative initiative for trade, and economic growth in the South East.
Flagging off the highway which was performed by the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described the project as a historic investment that will foster connectivity, boost commerce, and bring lasting socio-economic benefits to the region.
Nwifuru who hailed the President for his inclusive leadership and a renewed commitment to South East in national development agenda, pledged the full cooperation and support of the Ebonyi State Government to the successful implementation of the project and its timely completion.
He noted that the Ebonyi people are known for loyalty, resilience, and hard work, and the project stands as a strong symbol of unity, and equity, as well as a signature of the Renewed Hope. “The highway is a clear message that the South East region has not been forgotten”.
The Minister of Works, Engr. (Sen.) David Umahi, in his address, thanked the people of Ebonyi State for their warm reception and praised the Governor for his sterling leadership and described the impressive turnout as a demonstration of the people’s commitment to national progress and unity.
Umahi recounted recent flag-off ceremonies in Kaduna, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States, and disclosed that the Ebonyi event held a special significance.
He commended the President for appointing a South-Easterner as the Minister of Works for the first time and for including the South-East in a flagship national project of this magnitude, something the region had long been denied.
The Minister dismissed political distractions and reiterated that his support for the Governor is grounded in performance and loyalty to the APC while clarified that he is fully focused on his national assignment and has left local politics behind to deliver impactful projects across Nigeria. 
Umahi called on the South-East leaders, regardless of political affiliations, to unite behind President Tinubu in supporting ongoing massive infrastructure development.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Minister of State for Works, Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, who affirmed that the President holds the region close to his heart, emphasized that Tinubu’s administration is committed to the principle of “One Nigeria.”
He noted that the inclusion of the region in the road legacy Projects is a testament to the Federal Government’s prioritisation of equity, inclusiveness while thanked members of the House of Reps and all stakeholders for their support in advancing national infrastructure development.In a Goodwill Message, on behalf of the Ebonyi State Ministry of Works, the Commissioner, Engr. Stanley Mbam described the project as a dream come true and emphasised that the highway will serve generations to come.
Highlighting that the 118.85-kilometre alignment has been awarded to a reputable construction firm, appreciated the Honourable Minister of Works for championing the project.
He pledged continuous collaboration to ensure quality, adherence to standards, and timely delivery.while emphasised the project’s potential to boost local economic, transportation, and national connectivity.Other goodwill messages expressed profound appreciation for the Federal Govt’s commitment to infrastructure in the South East, with dignitaries thanking the Minister and, especially, President Tinubu for addressing long-standing transportation challenges.
Messages were delivered by notable personalities including the former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, SSA to the President on Community Engagement, South East Zone, Barr. Chioma Nweze and former Governor Martins Elechi.
In his welcome address, earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, saluted all stakeholders for their presence and support, stressed the importance of quality road infrastructure.
Engr. Adebiyi stated that, “A good road reduces accidents, enhances mobility, and stimulates economic growth.” He appealed to Ebonyi people to support the project for the benefit of their state and the country at large.
