The Federal Government has commenced construction of a 2.5-kilometre road linking three communities in Enugu State, in a move aimed at improving rural connectivity and stimulating economic activities.
The Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission, Peter Ogbonna Eze, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists on Wednesday in Abuja.
Eze said the road project connects Aji, Isiugwu, and Ufodo communities in Igboeze North Local Government Area, with a link to neighbouring Kogi State. He noted that the development would enhance access to farms, schools, and businesses.
According to him, the project—initiated through his office and funded by the Federal Government—is already underway, with the first kilometre nearing completion.
“This is a 2.5km road linking Aji, Isiugwu, and Ufodo communities in Enugu State. Work is ongoing, and the first kilometre is close to completion. Once the asphalt is laid, we will proceed to commission it,” he said.
He added that the road would feature asphalt finishing and double drainage systems to ensure durability and effective water management.
Eze said the intervention reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure while complementing the development efforts of the Enugu State Government.
He credited his drive to facilitate the project to the infrastructure-focused policies of Governor Peter Mbah, noting that federal representatives from the state were inspired to support ongoing development initiatives.
“Governor Peter Mbah has demonstrated strong commitment to infrastructure development across sectors, including education and healthcare. His vision has encouraged us at the federal level to contribute meaningfully to our communities,” he said.
The commissioner emphasised that improved road networks are critical to development, as they enhance access to economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for residents.
“Road infrastructure remains a key driver of development. It connects people to farms, schools, and markets, and ultimately improves livelihoods,” he added.
Speaking further, Eze commended the Petroleum Technology Development Fund scholarship scheme, describing it as impactful and noting a significant increase in participation from the South-East.
He said the screening exercise for candidates in the region was held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with additional participation recorded in other centres nationwide.
“This shows a positive shift. The South-East is becoming more engaged in national programmes, which is encouraging,” he said.
On the allocation of scholarship slots, Eze affirmed that oil-producing states in the South-East, including Abia and Imo, received their statutory entitlements.
“The allocation of slots is based on statutory provisions, not discretion. Oil-producing states in the South-East have consistently received what is due to them,” he stated.
Eze also reiterated the commission’s resolve to enforce compliance with federal character principles, warning that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies that fail to adhere to them would face legal action.
He said the commission, under its Executive Chairman, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, had intensified oversight to ensure fairness and equity in public service recruitment and operations.
“While many MDAs are responding positively, those who fail to comply will be prosecuted in line with the Federal Character Act,” he said.
