By Nkechi Eze
In line with ongoing efforts to improve rural infrastructure and promote inclusive development across Nigeria, the Federal Government has commenced the construction of a 2.5-kilometre road connecting three communities in Enugu State.
The Federal Commissioner representing the state at the Federal Character Commission, Peter Ogbonna Eze, disclosed this on Wednesday while addressing journalists during an interactive session at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. During the briefing, he also reiterated the commission’s determination to enforce strict adherence to federal character principles, warning that Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) that violate the provisions could face legal sanctions.
Eze explained that the road project links Aji, Isiugwu and Ufodo communities in Igboeze North Local Government Area of Enugu State and serves as a strategic route that connects the area to neighbouring Kogi State. He noted that the project is expected to ease movement within the communities while improving access to farms, schools and local businesses.
According to him, the intervention reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding rural infrastructure and complementing the development efforts of state governments.
“This is a 2.5-kilometre road linking three communities—Aji, Isiugwu and Ufodo—in Enugu State. The project is already ongoing, and the first kilometre is nearing completion. Once the asphalt is laid, we will move toward commissioning it,” he said.
Eze, who also serves as Chairman of the Committee on Works, Transport and Aviation at the commission, explained that the project was facilitated through his office but is being funded by the Federal Government. He added that the road would be completed with asphalt surfacing and equipped with double drainage systems to enhance durability and proper water management.
The commissioner said his motivation to push for the project was influenced by the infrastructure-focused leadership of the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, whose policies on road construction, education and healthcare have driven significant development across the state.
He noted that the governor’s development agenda had encouraged federal representatives from the state to contribute their own initiatives to support ongoing progress.
According to him, improved road infrastructure remains a critical factor in development because it facilitates movement, supports agricultural activities and enhances access to markets and social services.
“Road infrastructure is central to development. It improves access to farms, schools and markets and ultimately improves the quality of life of the people,” he said.
Eze also commended the scholarship programme of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, describing it as impactful and noting a significant increase in participation from the South-East region compared to previous years.
He disclosed that the screening exercise for candidates from the region was conducted at the University of Nigeria, adding that some applicants also participated in screenings held in other parts of the country.
According to him, the growing participation indicates that interest in national programmes within the South-East is increasing.
“This gives us hope that the narrative is changing. The South-East is showing more interest in national programmes, and that is a positive development,” he said.
On the issue of overseas scholarship opportunities for oil-producing states in the region, Eze stated that allocations were strictly guided by statutory provisions.
“All oil-producing states in the South-East, including Abia and Imo, have always received what is due to them. The slots are statutory, not discretionary,” he said.
He further disclosed that the Federal Character Commission, under its Executive Chairman, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, has intensified its oversight of government institutions to ensure equitable representation in recruitment and operations.
Eze warned that while several MDAs have begun responding positively to the commission’s engagement, those that continue to disregard the provisions of the Federal Character Act would face legal action.
