An engine control apparatus is provided that is capable of improving drivability and reducing the volume of exhaust gas expelled. In the engine control apparatus of the present invention, it is determined whether or not a vehicle is stopped. When the vehicle has stopped, it is determined whether or not it is possible to acquire road traffic information, for example, including traffic congestion information and the like, and traveling conditions information, for example, including the current position of the vehicle and information on a route to a destination. When it is possible to acquire this information, a determination is made as to whether or not the current position of the vehicle is within a traffic congested area based on the road traffic information and the traveling conditions information. If the vehicle is within a traffic congested area, stopping of the operation of the engine is prohibited.