By Enyinna Omoke, Abakaliki
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has directed contractors handling sections of the Trans-Saharan Highway in the state to adhere strictly to approved engineering standards and project specifications to ensure quality delivery.
Nwifuru gave the directive on Tuesday during an inspection of the 118-kilometre stretch of the highway linking Ndibe Bridge in Afikpo through Abaomege in Onicha, Onueke, Ezza South, Ukwuachi, Ezza North, Ishieke and Mbeke in Ebonyi State to its terminal point in Gboko, Benue State.
During the inspection, the governor visited the proposed flyover site at Ukwuachi, a component of the project designed to ease traffic congestion and improve the movement of commuters and other road users.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a transformative infrastructure agenda in the South-East, saying the ongoing projects were rewriting the region’s development story.
“I am very excited about the activities of Mr President, especially in the area of infrastructure. He knows and understands that the sole responsibility of government is to provide basic amenities.
“That is exactly what Mr President is doing for us in Ebonyi State and the South-East. The people of Ebonyi State are sincerely grateful. The President has not only shown capacity but has also demonstrated love for us,” Nwifuru said.
The governor assured contractors of the state’s cooperation in resolving challenges that could delay the project, particularly in areas relating to compensation and evaluation.
“When it comes to evaluation, our people are very cooperative. We will support you in this regard,” he said.
Nwifuru, however, warned that the government would not tolerate poor workmanship, diversion of funds, substandard materials or any deviation from approved project designs.
He specifically charged Infouest Construction Company Ltd, the contractor handling the project, to ensure strict compliance with engineering standards and specifications throughout the execution of the road.
The governor also renewed his appeal to the Igbo people to unite and support the re-election of President Tinubu for a second term, citing the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in the region.
Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Ebonyi State, Engr. Maxwell Okoha, explained that the flyover component of the Trans-Saharan Highway was incorporated into the project to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and enhance the movement of people and goods.
Okoha assured the governor that the project would be executed in line with approved engineering standards and specifications.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Infouest Construction Company Ltd, Mr. Mustapha Mohammad, assured the governor that the company would deploy the necessary resources to ensure the timely and quality completion of the project.
