Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, were visibly moved on Wednesday as they lamented the deplorable condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the plight of motorists as tragic and unacceptable.
The leaders, who jointly inspected the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, condemned years of neglect that have left commuters stranded and businesses disrupted, even as they praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking bold steps to reverse decades of infrastructural decay.
“No motorist can travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering serious challenges,” Umahi said, adding that President Tinubu inherited an overwhelming backlog of failed road and bridge projects but has demonstrated the courage and commitment to deliver lasting solutions.
He revealed that several prominent Nigerians, including Arise Television Chairman Nduka Obaigbena, had already commended the President’s interventions.
The Minister also commended Governor Okpebholo for intervening in critical sections of the Benin–Warri highway after the termination of a failed contract previously awarded under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme. He confirmed that the new contractor, CBC, is delivering “commendable” work with reinforced concrete pavement designed to last up to a century.
Governor Okpebholo, on his part, recalled his personal inspection of the road, where he witnessed stranded motorists, multiple accidents, and toppled trailers.
“I almost wept when I saw the number of vehicles that had broken down on this road. The situation demands urgent action, and I am glad the Minister has joined us to push for solutions,” he said.
The Governor stressed that durable roads are vital not just for economic growth but also for public trust in leadership. He assured that work would be completed before the next rainy season, emphasizing that “for our people to trust us, we must act.”
Later in the evening, at a special Independence Day dinner in his honour at the Edo State Government House Villa, Umahi announced a major presidential intervention: approval of a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State.
The announcement drew thunderous applause from guests, as Edo was not originally included in the highway’s alignment.
“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,” Umahi declared.
The highway project, one of the Tinubu administration’s most ambitious, is being executed by Hi-Tech Construction Nigeria Limited. Other states benefiting include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km).
Governor Okpebholo hailed the approval as a “turning point” for Edo’s infrastructural journey, describing President Tinubu as a leader who “treats me like a son” and never delays in granting support for the state.
“The 100km coastal highway is proof of the President’s love for Edo State,” he said, also lauding Umahi as “the best Minister for Works Nigeria has ever had.”
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