Nwifuru inspects Trans-Saharan Highway, urges contractors to adhere to engineering standards

Politics

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has directed contractors handling sections of the Trans-Saharan Highway project to strictly adhere to approved engineering standards and specifications to ensure the delivery of durable infrastructure.

The governor gave the directive on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the 118-kilometre section of the highway stretching from Ndibe Bridge in Afikpo through Abaomege, Onueke, Ukwuachi, Ishieke and Mbeke to its terminal point in Gboko, Benue State.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr Monday Uzor, Nwifuru also inspected the proposed flyover site at Ukwuachi, which is designed to ease traffic congestion and improve the movement of commuters and other road users.

Speaking during the inspection, the governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving what he described as a transformative infrastructure project for the South-East, saying the development would significantly improve connectivity and economic activities across the region.

“I am very excited about the activities of Mr President, especially in the area of infrastructure. He understands that the primary responsibility of government is to provide basic amenities, and that is exactly what he is doing for us in Ebonyi State and the South-East,” Nwifuru said.

“The President has not only shown capacity but has also demonstrated love for our people. We are sincerely grateful.”

The governor assured the contractors of the state government’s support to ensure the timely completion of the project, including cooperation with communities on issues relating to project evaluation and implementation.

“When it comes to evaluation, our people are very cooperative. We will continue to support you to ensure the successful delivery of this project,” he said.

Nwifuru, however, warned against compromising quality, insisting that the contractor, Infouest Construction Company Limited, must maintain the highest engineering standards throughout the execution of the project.

He cautioned that poor workmanship, substandard material mixtures, leakages and any diversion of project funds would not be tolerated.

The governor also used the occasion to renew his call on the people of the South-East to unite in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid, arguing that the administration’s investment in infrastructure demonstrates its commitment to the development of the region.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Ebonyi State, Engr. Maxwell Okoha, explained that the inclusion of flyovers along the highway was intended to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and facilitate smoother movement for motorists.

He assured the governor that the project would be executed in accordance with approved engineering specifications.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Infouest Construction Company Limited, Mr Mustapha Mohammad, pledged the company’s commitment to delivering the project to specification and within the agreed timeframe.

He assured the state government that every necessary measure would be taken to ensure the successful completion of the highway project.