The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the release of ₦25 billion for the construction of the Abakaliki–Afikpo flyover in Ebonyi State.
The disclosure was made by the Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District and former Governor of the state, Senator Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, who described the approval as a landmark development that will reposition Ebonyi on the map of national infrastructure renewal.
According to Umahi, the project will significantly ease traffic congestion along the busy Abakaliki–Afikpo corridor, improve safety for motorists and commuters, and strengthen commercial linkages between Ebonyi and neighbouring states in the Southeast and South-South regions.
"I am pleased to announce that the Federal Executive Council has graciously approved the sum of ₦25 billion for the Abakaliki–Afikpo flyover. This project is not just a road facility; it is a catalyst for growth that will open new economic corridors, support trade, and improve the living standards of our people,” Umahi said.
The lawmaker, who chairs the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, noted that the approval reflects the commitment of the Bola Tinubu-led administration to ensure equitable infrastructure distribution across the country. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and his cabinet colleagues for prioritizing Ebonyi in the current wave of federal projects.
Umahi, a structural engineer by training, emphasized that the project aligns with Ebonyi’s rapid urban renewal drive, particularly in the state capital, Abakaliki, which has witnessed massive expansion in recent years.
Analysts say the flyover will boost trade and ease the evacuation of agricultural produce, especially rice, cassava, and other staples for which Ebonyi is renowned. The corridor also links Ebonyi to Cross River, Abia, and Enugu, making it a strategic hub for inter-state commerce.
Residents believe the flyover will reduce accidents at one of the state’s busiest intersections, while also cutting down travel time between Abakaliki and Afikpo — the state’s second-largest city.
This is the second major federal intervention in Ebonyi within the last year, following ongoing federal works on sections of the Abakaliki–Enugu highway. Umahi, who served as Minister of Works before returning to the Senate, has been credited with leveraging his engineering background and federal connections to attract critical projects to the Southeast.
The Abakaliki–Afikpo flyover is expected to commence soon after due procurement processes, with assurances that local contractors and artisans will be engaged to boost job creation.
“This is a victory for Ebonyi people. It shows that our voices are being heard at the center, and that our infrastructure needs are receiving due attention. I assure you that I will continue to use my position in the Senate to lobby for more federal projects for our dear state,” Umahi assured.
