As part of efforts to ensure a seamless travel experience for commuters in the South-East this Easter, the Federal Government has announced the immediate opening of the 15-kilometre Abakpa-9th Mile section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, during a project inspection, also directed contractors on other sections to clear the lanes for holiday traffic.
The Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, a critical artery for trade and movement in the South-East, for years has been a nightmare for motorists.
But the narrative is shifting, as Minister of Works, David Umahi, arrived on-site to inspect the progress of the reinforced concrete pavement design for about 50 percent of the road project.
Performing a symbolic opening of the Abakpa-9th Mile stretch, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the 97% completion rate.
He stressed the importance of the road to People of South East and other Nigerians.
According to him, the focus is more on the dreaded Ugwu-Onyeama section.
Historically the section is known for its steep topography and treacherous terrain, that claimed countless lives in tanker explosions and head-on collisions due to failed portions and narrow diversions.
With this new intervention, the notorious “death trap” is being tamed.
The dualisation and concrete reinforcement mean the gridlocks that once held commuters for over several hours are now becoming a thing of the past.
Beyond the Abakpa-9th Mile axis, the Minister issued a stern directive to contractors handling other sections along the 107-kilometre expressway to remove barriers and open at least one lane on both sides to accommodate the influx of South East Travelers returning home for the Easter festivity
