Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpbholo, and the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, were visibly moved as they lamented the appalling condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the plight of motorists as both tragic and unacceptable.
During an inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, the two leaders decried the hardship faced daily by commuters, noting that the situation reflects years of neglect that can no longer be ignored.
Speaking after the inspection, Governor Okpbholo and Minister Umahi commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift intervention and commitment to reversing decades of infrastructural decay, even as they underscored the urgency of delivering immediate and lasting solutions
Minister of Works said that no motorist could travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering major challenges.
He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited an extensive backlog of failed road and bridge projects from past administrations, but stressed that the President has demonstrated courage, commitment and determination to reverse the situation.
“President Tinubu met an overwhelming situation in terms of roads and bridges. You can’t travel 100 kilometres on federal roads without encountering serious difficulties. But the President is showing resolve, and Nigerians are already commending his efforts,” Umahi stated.
The Minister cited commendations from prominent Nigerians, including Arise Television Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, as evidence that the Tinubu administration’s road interventions are already resonating with the public.
He dismissed criticisms from some quarters, insisting that the President remains focused on delivering durable roads.
Umahi praised Okpbholo for promptly intervening in critical failed portions of the Benin–Warri highway after the termination of a contract earlier awarded to Levante Construction Company under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme.
He explained that Levante executed only four kilometres of reinforced concrete pavement in stable sections of the road, neglecting the worst segments despite repeated warnings.
“The contract was terminated after months of delay and poor work. We appealed to Governor Okpbholo to take over the first 23 kilometres, which he promptly awarded to CBC. The quality of their work is commendable,” Umahi disclosed.
The Minister added that the federal government has directed the new contractors to reinforce the road base, elevate the carriageway, and ensure no weak points are left unaddressed. He also appealed to Governor Okpbholo to extend his intervention to an additional nine kilometres, praising his willingness to collaborate.
Umahi further assured that Tinubu’s road projects are designed with reinforced concrete technology to last between 50 and 100 years. He urged contractors to accelerate construction, working even at night, and directed the Federal Controller of Works in Edo State to provide photographic updates of progress.
While acknowledging funding challenges following the suspension of NNPC tax credit funding, Umahi revealed that President Tinubu has ordered the continuation of all such projects nationwide. He also hinted at a forthcoming federal intervention in Edo tagged “Coaster Highway,” describing it as a gift to the state.
Okpebholo, in his remarks, commended the Minister for his prompt response to Edo’s infrastructural challenges. He recalled his recent personal inspection of the road, where he was disturbed by the sight of multiple accidents and stranded motorists.
“I almost wept when I saw the number of vehicles, including trailers, that had broken down or fallen on this road. The situation demands urgent action, and I am glad the Minister has joined us to push for solutions,” the Governor said.
Okpbholo stressed that quality road infrastructure is not only essential for the people’s welfare but also critical for the ruling party’s credibility. He assured that the ongoing work, though slow due to concrete technology, will provide a lasting solution and should be completed before the next rainy season.
“We are determined to fix this road. If I do my part and the federal government does its part, nobody will criticize the President. For our people to trust us, we must act. With more contractors on site, this project can be delivered on schedule,” Okpbholo affirmed.
The Minister and Governor jointly assured Edo residents that the federal government remains committed to delivering durable and sustainable road infrastructure across the state and the nation at large.
Later that evening, a special Independence Day Dinner was held in honour of the Minister at the Edo State Government House Villa in Benin City.
The event, organised to celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, was attended by top government officials, including former deputy governors, state and federal lawmakers, APC leaders, and traditional stakeholders.
During the dinner, Senator Umahi delivered a major announcement on behalf of President Tinubu, the approval of a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State, a state that was not originally included in the highway’s alignment.
Umahi announced to thunderous applause, “Mr. President has directed that 100 kilometres by two lanes of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway must now pass through Edo. This is a special gift to the people of Edo.”
The project, one of Tinubu administration’s most ambitious, is being handled by Hi-Tech Construction Nigeria Limited.
Other states benefitting from the project include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km).
Originally, Edo was not on the route. Umahi explained, “But the President, impressed by your governor’s commitment to infrastructure, insisted that the state must benefit. It’s a reward for loyalty, leadership and performance.”
In his remarks, Okpebholo thanked Tinubu for the surprise gift, describing it as a turning point in Edo’s infrastructure journey.
“The President treats me like a son. Whenever we request support, he responds with express approval. This 100km coastal highway is proof of his love for our state.”
He also lauded the Minister for Works, recalling their brief time together in the Senate and how his very first motion was on Edo’s bad roads, a prophecy fulfilled when Umahi was later appointed Minister for Works.
Okpebholo said: “He is the best Minister for Works Nigeria has ever had”.
