The Federal Government has described the Calabar-Abuja Superhighway as a strategic infrastructure project aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s transportation ecosystem and boosting economic activities along the South-East and North-Central economic corridors.

This was disclosed during the contract signing ceremony for Section I of the 118.85 km Enugu/Abakaliki/Ogoja Highway, which is part of the Africa Trans-Sahara route. The highway spans Cross River, Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa states, and terminates in Apo, Abuja.

According to a statement by Orji Orji, Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister of Works, the project will involve reconstructing existing road pavements with Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement. The section begins at Ndibe Beach in Ebonyi State and passes through several key locations, including Eke Market, Abaomege, Onueke, Achiagu, and Ishieke, before ending at Mbeke.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, highlighted the significance of the project, describing it as a transformative initiative under the Renewed Hope Legacy Projects. He noted that the highway would stimulate trade, promote agricultural development, and foster inter-regional cohesion.

“The Calabar-Abuja Superhighway is not just a road; it is a critical investment that will transform Nigeria’s socio-economic fortunes, enhance transportation sustainability, and diversify our economy,” Umahi said.

He added that the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is committed to completing inherited projects while embarking on new transformative initiatives. “Mr. President has engaged in four critical investments under the Renewed Hope Legacy Projects. These include the Lagos-Calabar highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, and this third project that spans the South-East to Abuja.”

Umahi highlighted progress on other legacy projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar 750 km highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, noting that construction is already underway on key sections. He assured Nigerians that mobilization fees had been paid for ongoing projects, signaling the government’s commitment to their timely completion.

He also mentioned other inherited projects, such as the Makurdi-9th Mile road, which the administration is prioritizing as part of efforts to improve infrastructure nationwide.

The Enugu/Abakaliki/Ogoja Highway is expected to boost regional trade and connectivity, benefiting states along its path and enhancing the overall transportation network across Nigeria.