Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has warned contractors handling the Trans-Saharan Highway project against the use of substandard materials, diversion of project funds and any compromise of engineering standards.

The governor gave the warning on Tuesday during an inspection of the 118-kilometre section of the highway, which passes through Ndibe Bridge in Afikpo, Abaomege in Onicha, Onueke in Ezza South, Ukwuachi in Ezza North, and Ishieke and Mbeke in Ebonyi Local Government Area before terminating in Gboko, Benue State.

Speaking during a stop at the proposed flyover site in Ukwuachi, Nwifuru stressed that quality would not be sacrificed in the execution of the project and directed the main contractor, Infouest Construction Company Ltd, to adhere strictly to approved engineering specifications.

He also assured the contractors of the state government’s support to ensure the timely completion of the project.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing infrastructure projects in the South-East, describing them as transformative for the region.

“I am also very excited about the activities of Mr. President especially in the area of infrastructure,” Nwifuru said.

“He knows and understands that the sole responsibility of the government is to provide basic amenities. And that is exactly what Mr. President is doing for us in Ebonyi State and Southeast.”

Also speaking, the Federal Controller of Works in Ebonyi State, Engr. Maxwell Okoha, said the flyover component of the project was designed to improve traffic flow and provide a lasting solution to transportation challenges along the corridor.

Responding on behalf of the contractor, the Managing Director of Infouest Construction Company Ltd, Mustapha Mohammad, assured the governor that the company would deploy the necessary resources to deliver the project within schedule.

During the inspection tour, Governor Nwifuru also called on the people of the South-East to support President Tinubu’s administration and back his bid for a second term, citing ongoing federal infrastructure projects in the region. (Channels)

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