The Federal Government has commenced the construction of a 2.5-kilometre road linking Aji, Isiugwu, and Ufodo communities in Igboeze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, in a move aimed at improving rural connectivity and economic activity.

The Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Peter Ogbonna Eze, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Eze said the road project, which also connects neighbouring Kogi State, is expected to improve access to farms, schools, and markets, thereby boosting livelihoods in the affected communities.

According to him, the project was initiated through his office but is being funded by the Federal Government. He added that the first kilometre is nearing completion, with asphalt laying and drainage works ongoing.

“This is a 2.5km road linking three communities, Aji, Isiugwu, and Ufodo. The project is ongoing, and the first kilometre is nearing completion. Once the asphalt is laid, we will move to commission it,” he said.

He noted that the road would feature asphalt surfacing and double drainage systems to ensure durability and effective water management.

Eze attributed his drive to facilitate the project to the infrastructure-focused policies of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, saying the governor’s development agenda had inspired federal representatives from the state to support ongoing efforts.

He said improved infrastructure remained central to development, stressing that better roads would enhance access to education, agriculture, and commerce.

“Road is a critical aspect of development. It improves access to farms, schools, and markets, and ultimately enhances the quality of life of the people,” he said.

On federal scholarship participation, Eze commended increased engagement from the South-East in the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) scholarship scheme, describing it as a positive shift from previous years.

He disclosed that screening exercises for candidates from the region were held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, while some candidates also participated in other zones.

“The South-East is showing more interest in national programmes, and that is a positive development,” he said.

Eze further confirmed that oil-producing states in the South-East, including Abia and Imo, continue to receive their statutory allocations in the overseas scholarship scheme.

“All oil-producing states in the South-East have always received what is due to them. The slots are statutory, not discretionary,” he stated.

On enforcement of federal character compliance, Eze warned that the FCC would begin legal action against Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that violate federal character principles in recruitment and operations.

He said the commission, under its Executive Chairman, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, had intensified oversight to ensure fairness and equitable representation in public service.

“We have engaged several MDAs, and many are responding positively. However, those who fail to comply will face legal action, as empowered by the Federal Character Act,” he added.