By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that road infrastructure remains a critical driver of economic growth and national development, stressing that efficient road networks are essential for improving connectivity, facilitating trade, and enhancing access to basic services.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Peter Eze, said sustained investment in road development would strengthen rural-urban linkages, boost local economies, and improve livelihoods.

He noted that improved road connectivity plays a vital role in easing the movement of people and goods, while also opening up rural communities to greater economic opportunities.

Eze emphasised ongoing infrastructure efforts in Enugu State as a practical example, pointing to a 2.5-kilometre road project linking Aji, Isiugwu, and Ufodo communities in Igboeze North Local Government Area, which is nearing completion.

According to him, the project, driven by the infrastructure, focused policies of Governor Peter Mbah, will enhance access to farms, schools, and businesses, while also extending connectivity towards neighbouring Kogi State.

“The governor has demonstrated a clear commitment to development, particularly in road infrastructure. Those of us at the federal level are drawing inspiration from that vision to support our communities,” he said.

Providing an update, Eze disclosed that construction on the road has reached an advanced stage, with the first kilometre nearing completion, while asphalt laying is expected to commence soon ahead of commissioning.

He added that the road is being constructed with proper drainage systems to improve durability and address erosion challenges in the area.

Eze clarified that the project was facilitated through government channels rather than personal funding, leveraging his office to attract federal intervention to the benefiting communities.

Residents have welcomed the development, describing it as timely given longstanding challenges associated with poor road access, particularly for farmers and traders.

The commissioner stressed that the project aligns with broader development priorities in Enugu State, including investments in roads, education, and healthcare, adding that infrastructure development remains central to unlocking economic potential in rural areas.

He also commended the scholarship programme of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), describing it as impactful and increasingly inclusive, particularly for the South-East.
Eze noted a significant rise in participation from the region, attributing it to growing confidence in the transparency of the scheme, and said the trend positions the zone to benefit more from federal opportunities.

On regulatory oversight, he disclosed that the Federal Character Commission has intensified engagement with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), warning that non-compliance with federal character principles could attract sanctions, including possible legal action.