The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has given MTN a strict ultimatum to pay N15bn monthly to contractors working on the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway or face contract termination, following concerns over delays and rising costs on the project.
The directive came during a meeting with the Anambra and Enugu caucus of the 10th National Assembly, who raised alarms about the deteriorating condition of the road, which has become a significant safety hazard.
The Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, which is being funded by MTN under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, has faced persistent delays, leading to a more than 100% increase in project costs.
Umahi expressed frustration over the situation, warning that further delays could push the cost up by more than 200%. “If we allow MTN more time, the cost could rise astronomically, and this is unacceptable to the Federal Government,” he said.
Umahi also highlighted the tragic consequences of the road’s poor condition, referencing a recent tanker explosion on the Ugwu Onyeama axis that killed several people.
“The people of the South-East have every reason to expect better infrastructure, and this delay is putting lives at risk,” he remarked, stressing the urgency of completing the road.
In response to the ongoing issues, the Minister ordered MTN to commit to paying at least N15bn each month for the next 10 months to ensure contractors can expedite work on the road.
Failure to meet this requirement will lead to the revocation of the contract. Furthermore, Umahi announced that the remaining 72km of the road will be opened up to other contractors through a competitive bidding process, with MTN and RCC Ltd invited to participate.
Senator Osita Ngwu, the Minority Whip of the Senate representing Enugu West, joined the meeting and voiced concerns over the safety risks posed by unfinished sections of the road.
“Some parts of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway have become death traps,” Ngwu stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action. “We must collaborate to resolve this issue and ensure the road is completed without further delay.”
Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra Central also called for urgent attention to the infrastructure needs of the South-East, pointing to the region’s long-standing neglect.
“We need accelerated funding to address the South-East’s infrastructure deficit,” Umeh said. “This region should be a priority for the Federal Government to support its economic development.”
Umahi, in turn, commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the infrastructure challenges across Nigeria, particularly in the South-East.
“Under President Tinubu, the South-East has received a greater political focus,” he said. “The President inherited thousands of unfinished projects, and his administration is making strides to resolve these issues, including critical road and railway infrastructure.”
The road, a vital link for the South-East region, is now at the heart of a high-stakes battle to ensure itstimely and safe completion.
