The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has commended Nigeria’s ongoing road infrastructure development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the scale of projects as significant for regional integration and economic growth.
The commendation was given by the Leader of the ECOWAS Bank delegation, Mainouna Sidibe, during an inspection tour of major federal road projects in Ebonyi State alongside the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
Sidibe expressed satisfaction with the level of progress recorded on key infrastructure projects across the country, noting that they align with ECOWAS objectives of improving connectivity and enhancing economic opportunities among member states. He pledged the bank’s readiness to support development initiatives that promote regional trade and integration.
The delegation inspected the dualization of the Abakaliki–Afikpo–Ndibe Beach Trans-Saharan Highway, a major road project designed to link Ebonyi State with Cross River State through Ndibe Beach in Afikpo, and extend connectivity toward Benue and Kogi States.
The project is part of the federal government’s legacy infrastructure programme aimed at improving transportation networks, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activities along strategic corridors.
Speaking during the tour, Senator Umahi described President Tinubu as a major driver of Nigeria’s infrastructural transformation, saying the administration’s road projects are designed to stand the test of time and stimulate long-term economic growth.
He explained that the Trans-Saharan corridor project is investment-driven, with funding structured through a combination of federal government contributions and financing arrangements to ensure sustainability.
Umahi added that the corridor, which cuts across the South-South, South-East, North-Central and extends toward the Federal Capital Territory, would significantly ease movement of goods and people while opening up new economic opportunities.
He further noted that the road alignment follows historic trade routes, now being modernized to support contemporary commerce and regional integration.
The Minister also assured that the ongoing projects would reduce travel time to Abuja from the South-East and enhance connectivity to other parts of the country.
The ECOWAS Bank delegation said it would continue to monitor and support infrastructure projects that strengthen economic ties across West Africa and contribute to sustainable development within the sub-region.
