Ebonyi Elders Dismiss Criticism of VANCO Flyover, Back Nwifuru's Infrastructure Drive

The Ebonyi State Council of Elders has dismissed concerns over the pace of work on the ongoing VANCO Flyover and Tunnel project, expressing satisfaction with the quality and scale of major infrastructure projects being executed by the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru across the state.

The Chairman of the Council, Engr Ben Okah who gave the endorsement after inspection tour of the project and other  key government projects, described the ongoing developments as transformative investments that would accelerate economic growth, improve infrastructure and enhance the welfare of the people.

"This is the historic Old Ogoja Road. As you can see, there is massive construction activity going on. Workers are everywhere, with numerous pieces of equipment on site, including concrete pumps, cranes, mixers, and other heavy machinery. Work is progressing simultaneously at different sections of the project".

"We are highly impressed with the vision behind this project. It is a remarkable initiative, and we sincerely commend Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for embarking on it".

"I want to emphasize that this project was not conceived today. Previous administrations had intended to execute it but could not. Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru demonstrated the courage and determination to commence the project".

"Some people may see it as merely an aesthetic development, but I believe it is a sound economic investment. When completed, it will boost commerce, improve traffic flow, and contribute significantly to the economic growth of Ebonyi State". 

He described Governor Nwifuru as a visionary leader whose administration was laying a solid foundation for sustainable development through strategic infrastructure investments.

Other projects inspected by the Council include the Nwezenyi Flyover along the Trans-Saharan Way in Izzi Local Government Area, the Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering University at Onueke, the Senator Chris Nwankwo Housing Estate at Chiboy Nkwegu, and the Ebonyi International Trade Centre at Presco Junction, Abakaliki.

The Council Chairman also appealed to the people of Ebonyi State to continue supporting the present administration, noting that Governor Nwifuru had consistently demonstrated commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of the citizens.

Conducting members of the Council round the project sites, the Commissioner for Works, Mr. Lebechi Mbam, alongside the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Concession, Mr. Ogbonnaya Abara, explained the level of completion and economic importance of the projects, saying they would stimulate economic growth, improve transportation, beautify the state and strengthen Ebonyi's investment potential.

Responding to criticisms from some quarters over the alleged slow pace of work, particularly on the VANCO Flyover and Tunnel project, Mbam dismissed the claims, insisting that construction was progressing in line with approved engineering specifications and established procedures.

He appealed to residents to remain patient, assuring them that the project would rank among the finest engineering landmarks in the South-East upon completion.

"And this is the second deck we are constructing. The first decking is within the tunnel, and it will connect both auxiliary walkways surrounding the flyover. The tunnel is 4.1 kilometres long and is a dual carriageway, just like the flyover. That is why you can see the median demarcation work currently in progress. After the base pavement is cast, we will construct the median Jersey barrier to separate the two carriageways".

"So far, the project is progressing very well. The only major challenge we encountered at the initial stage was the excavation of the tunnel. Although our soil tests confirmed that we would encounter rock formations, they could not determine the exact type of rock beneath the surface.

When we eventually reached the rock layer, it proved to be extremely difficult to excavate. It took us almost three to four months to complete the blasting operations before we could achieve the required formation level for the construction of the tunnel base".

"That challenge is now behind us. The backfilling and the column bases that support the tunnel structure have been completed. The tunnel will also have a deck on the right-hand side because a residential estate is proposed in that area. The columns and foundations are now 100 per cent complete, while the column caps are about 70 per cent completed".

 

"In terms of quality, we have engaged independent consultants, Ministry of Works engineers, and laboratory personnel to supervise every stage of construction. Concrete samples are regularly taken to the laboratory to ensure they meet the required design specifications. Therefore, I am very confident that before May 29 next year, this project will be completed".

"We also appreciate the unwavering commitment of the Governor to funding this project. This is not just another construction project; it is a landmark development. As you can see, every section of the site is active around the clock. Work is ongoing simultaneously on this section, the adjoining section, the tunnel, and the drainage system. All these activities require substantial financial resources".

"Given the Governor's strong commitment to the project, our responsibility is to accelerate the pace of work and ensure we deliver it within the targeted completion timeline". Mbam stated.