FG Collapses 60-Mtr Mountain For Okigwe-Afikpo Road Construction -Umahi

‎ ‎By Wilson Okereke, Abakaliki

‎ ‎The Federal Government has commenced the removal of a mountain estimated at 60 metres in height as part of the ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Afikpo–Uturu–Okigwe Highway. ‎ ‎Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, disclosed this while addressing newsmen during inspection yesterday, describing the intervention as a life-saving project for the people of the South-East. ‎ ‎Umahi said the challenging section was deliberately selected to demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and connectivity across the region.

‎ ‎He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a leader committed to development and inclusiveness across the country. ‎ ‎According to him, the progress recorded on the highway should convince residents of the South-East that the Federal Government is committed to infrastructure development in the region. ‎ ‎He urged the people to shun hate speech, political sentiments and intolerance, stressing the need for inclusiveness and constructive engagement. ‎ ‎The minister said more than 20 kilometres of the 65-kilometre section had been completed with high-quality concrete pavement, adding that the improvement had significantly enhanced accessibility along the route. ‎

‎Umahi also clarified that the removal of the mountain was not part of Dangote Industries Limited's project and had not resulted in an increase in the cost of the road project. ‎ ‎He explained that the intervention was undertaken through collaboration and an appeal for support because of the importance of the road to the lives and economic activities of the people. ‎ ‎“If we were to pay for the collapsing of the mountain, even the entire cost of the project cannot do it. Thus, it is just an appeal because of lives and the development of the country,” he said. ‎ ‎The minister disclosed that the dualisation section of the project was procured under the Tax Credit Scheme and sponsored by Dangote Industries Limited, while Hi-Tech Construction Company was engaged as the subcontractor. ‎ ‎He further explained that the Trans-Sahara Road would connect Okigwe Roundabout through Aghara Roundabout, Owerri, Nekede, Awgu, Achi and Oji River, thereby improving connectivity between the South-East and other parts of the country. ‎ ‎Umahi urged Nigerians, particularly residents of the South-East, to support projects capable of promoting economic development and regional integration. ‎ ‎He also appealed for tolerance of divergent political opinions, describing those who insult others over differences in political views as undemocratic. ‎ ‎The minister subsequently called for continuity of the Federal Government's infrastructure programmes, urging Nigerians to support President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.