President Bola Tinubu has officially launched the construction of the first section of the ambitious 118.8-kilometre Calabar–Ebonyi–Benue–Nasarawa–Abuja Super Highway, marking a significant moment for Nigeria’s infrastructure journey. The event took place in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, with Tinubu represented by Governor Francis Nwifuru.
The President assured Nigerians of a timely and high-quality delivery of the project, highlighting the large turnout at the ceremony as proof of public enthusiasm and support. Speaking on behalf of the President, Governor Nwifuru conveyed Tinubu’s message that the super highway is a bold move to transform transportation across the South-East, North-Central, and South-South regions.
He described the project as a strategic step toward ending decades of infrastructural neglect and social isolation. Tinubu expressed confidence that this initiative would open new doors for regional inclusion, economic growth and nationwide accessibility. The highway, which begins at Ndibe Beach in Afikpo, will run through Ukwuachi-Mbeke Ishieke in Ebonyi, extend through Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, and eventually link up with Abuja. It also connects to Calabar via Odukpani in Cross River State.
Tinubu pointed out that Ebonyi, although landlocked, holds tremendous promise in agriculture, trade and mineral resources. He explained that the new road would serve as a catalyst to unlock these opportunities. According to him, the highway means quicker access to markets for farmers, lower transportation costs for traders, safer travel for students and job opportunities for young people.
Minister of Works David Umahi commended Tinubu for ensuring fair distribution of infrastructure projects and for appointing someone from the South-East as Minister of Works for the first time in Nigeria’s history. He stated that the President stood firm in keeping the highway’s alignment through the South-East, resisting any attempts to alter the route.
Umahi praised Tinubu’s commitment to equity and national development, stressing that this project is not just a road, but a major investment in the country’s unity and economic future.
