Benin, Edo – The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, on Thursday expressed deep concern over the dire condition of federal roads in Edo State during an inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass.

Visibly moved, the duo described the plight of motorists as “tragic and unacceptable,” attributing the hardship to years of neglect that can no longer be overlooked. The event, coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations, culminated in a bold announcement of a new highway project, signaling a potential turning point for the state’s infrastructure.

The inspection revealed a grim reality, with Governor Okpebholo recalling a personal tour where he was “almost moved to tears” by the sight of numerous accidents and stranded vehicles, including trailers, along the Benin–Warri highway.

Minister Umahi reinforced this, stating, “You can’t travel 100 kilometers on federal roads without encountering serious difficulties,” highlighting the extensive backlog of failed road and bridge projects inherited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

A key focus was the Benin–Warri highway, where a contract with Levante Construction Company, awarded under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme, was terminated due to months of delay and poor performance—delivering only four kilometers of reinforced concrete pavement in stable sections.

Umahi praised Governor Okpebholo for stepping in, awarding the first 23 kilometers to CBC contractors, whose work he described as commendable.

The federal government has directed these contractors to reinforce the road base, elevate the carriageway, and address weak points, with Umahi urging night shifts and ordering the Federal Controller of Works in Edo State to provide photographic progress updates.

He also appealed to Okpebholo to extend intervention to an additional nine kilometers, lauding their collaborative spirit.

The leaders assured residents of durable solutions, with Umahi touting reinforced concrete technology designed to last 50 to 100 years, despite funding hurdles following the suspension of NNPC tax credit funding. Tinubu’s order to continue such projects nationwide, coupled with a hinted “Coaster Highway” intervention for Edo, underscores a commitment to long-term infrastructure renewal.

Okpebholo emphasized the political stakes, stating, “For our people to trust us, we must act,” and pledged completion before the next rainy season with additional contractors.

The day’s highlight came during a special Independence Day Dinner at the Edo State Government House Villa, attended by top officials and APC leaders.

Minister Umahi announced that President Tinubu has approved a 100-kilometer stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State, a state initially excluded from the project’s alignment. Handled by Hi-Tech Construction Nigeria Limited, the highway will also benefit Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km).

Umahi attributed the inclusion to Okpebholo’s infrastructure commitment, calling it “a reward for loyalty, leadership, and performance.”

Governor Okpebholo hailed the decision as a “turning point,” thanking Tinubu for treating him “like a son” and responding promptly to requests.

He also lauded Umahi, recalling their Senate days when his first motion addressed Edo’s bad roads—a prophecy fulfilled by Umahi’s ministerial role.

“He is the best Minister for Works Nigeria has ever had,” Okpebholo declared to applause.