President Bola Tinubu has officially flagged off the construction of Section 1 (118.85 kilometres) of the Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue-Nasarawa-Abuja Super Highway.
The flag-off ceremony for this legacy project took place at Amuro Primary School, Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State on Wednesday.
Represented by Governor Francis Nwifuru, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the people of the southeast for their support of his administration and urged them to continue, assuring them of better things to come for the country
He pledged that the project would be completed not only within record time but also according to stipulated specifications.
In his address, Governor Francis Nwifuru described the project as critical to the aspirations of the people.
“May I also take this opportunity to profoundly thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda is beginning to take root in every corner of our country.
“This project reflects the President’s resolve to deploy infrastructure as a tool for national development and growth. We shall remain resolute in our support for the administration of Mr President as a way of reciprocating this gesture,” he said.
Governor Nwifuru emphasised the immeasurable multiplier effect of the road.
“For us as a state, this project is especially significant. We are a landlocked state with vast potential in agriculture, solid minerals, and trade.
“For years, our progress has been slowed down by poor connectivity with other states. But today, we break that barrier. With this flagship road construction, we are writing a new chapter—one of progress, prosperity, and integration.
“And as Governor of Ebonyi State, I say this without reservation: this project is a game-changer. For our farmers, it means faster access to regional and national markets.
“For our traders, it means reduced transportation costs. For our students, it means more secure and accessible roads to institutions across state borders. For our youth, it means employment. For our local economy, it means growth.
“This initiative is not merely a civil engineering task. It is a bold declaration that the era of isolation, marginalisation, and infrastructural neglect is giving way to an era of transformation, inclusion, and nationwide accessibility,” Nwifuru said.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, described President Tinubu as a leader for all.
“He does not discriminate; he is a unifier, a true Nigerian, and a patriotic leader who has the entire nation at heart.