The Federal Government has set March 31, 2026, as the deadline for reopening the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, as it accelerates infrastructure upgrades across the South-East under Bola Tinubu.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the timeline during an inspection of projects in Enugu, including the expressway and the Eke-Obinagu Flyover.
He explained that the government is reviewing key projects nationwide ahead of possible commissioning by May 29.
“There are mega projects that the President will be available for before May 29, and we mean it,” Umahi said.
For years, the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway ranked among the most dangerous roads in the region. Frequent tanker explosions, fatal accidents, and heavy traffic caused widespread concern.
However, Umahi said the situation has changed significantly due to decisive government action.
“There were a lot of tanker accidents, a lot of people died… but now it is a past story because the President has swung into action,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the government has introduced a major structural upgrade on the highway.
Umahi revealed that the dual carriageway, which stretches about 107 kilometres on each side, is undergoing conversion from asphalt to concrete to improve durability.
He noted that even if asphalt sections fail, the concrete portions will remain intact and ensure long-term stability.
In addition, the project extends to parts of Anambra State, especially the head bridge axis.
Engineers are replacing earlier asphalt designs with concrete pavement to meet modern highway standards and improve road quality.
Furthermore, the government is adding solar-powered street lights and environmental features to enhance safety.
Umahi said the installation of solar lights will begin immediately, while tree planting will support environmental sustainability.
Umahi urged residents of the South-East to appreciate the scale of federal intervention in the region.
He argued that previous administrations did not deliver similar levels of infrastructure development.
At the same time, he warned against divisive narratives and misinformation about the project.
As the March 31 deadline approaches, the project signals a major shift in road infrastructure in the South-East.
If completed as planned, the upgraded expressway could:
Improve road safety and reduce accidents
Ease traffic congestion
Boost economic activities across the region
