Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Member representing South East in the North East Development Commission, Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has lauded President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, over the Federal Government’s approval of N14.37 billion for the completion of Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene federal road.
The 51-killometer road which was awarded over nine years ago for total reconstruction has remained a nightmare for motorists and commuters plying the route except few portions of the road which had been fixed recently.
This is as the ex-lawmaker appealed to the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, “to ensure the proper award of the 16-kilometer Umuahia-Umudike Dualisation Project, which has a provision for an Interchange (Flyover) from Amachara across the Abia Tower to Osaa, in line with the design and their letter of 29th July, 2020.”
Hon. Onuigbo who addressed a press conference in Umuahia thanked President Tinubu for showing commitment to complete the project which has been a source of concern to the people.
The Federal Government had through an Executive Order, directed for the transfer of its funding to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) through the Road Tax Credit Scheme.
Approval for additional N14.37 billion augmentation was given by the Federal Executive Council (FEC ) on February 3, 2025.
Hon. Onuigbo who said that the road is of strategic importance to both South-East and South-South zones, explained that its realisation would boost economic activities of the zones.
The former lawmaker recalled his efforts in facilitating the contract, and expressed optimism that it would soon be delivered.
He, therefore, charged serving political office holders to direct their energies towards ensuring that NNPCL doubles efforts in releasing more funds to enable full realisation of the road reconstruction project.
Onuigbo commended other political office holders from the constituency for their various efforts in attracting democracy dividends to the constituency.
