Umahi Directs Contractors to Open Multiple Work Fronts on Superhighway
Works Minister David Umahi ordered contractors handling the Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue-Kogi-Nasarawa-Abuja Superhighway to open multiple work fronts and intensify construction, speaking during a weekend inspection on September 25-26, 2026. He urged deployment of sufficient manpower and resources to overcome engineering challenges such as rivers and swampy sections while protecting existing buildings along the alignment.
Umahi specifically directed the contractor for Section Two to open at least three work fronts and emphasized that no building should be demolished merely because it falls within the proposed alignment without further technical assessment, stating that any needed realignment would be done personally. He also called for intensified efforts around river crossings to achieve temporary motorability where necessary, allowing movement while permanent works continue.
The minister noted that technical adjustments to the alignment may be made around sharp curves and built-up areas, provided they do not impose additional costs on the Federal Government under the current financing arrangement. He commended the progress made since his previous inspection.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagements, South-East, Barrister Chioma Nweze praised the project for generating direct and indirect employment and opening up communities for increased economic activity, saying the highway supports the FG's broader infrastructure and economic-development goals by facilitating movement of people, agricultural produce and other goods.
For commuters and businesses along the route, expect ongoing works with possible detours; residents should note that buildings will not be touched without review. The accelerated schedule aims to deliver the highway sooner, improving regional connectivity and trade.