October 02, (THEWILL) —Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, on Thursday, expressed deep concern over the deplorable state of federal roads in Edo State, describing the condition as tragic and unacceptable.
The duo, who spoke during an inspection of the failed sections of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, lamented the daily suffering of motorists and commuters.
Umahi, who noted that no motorist could drive 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering serious challenges, said President Bola Tinubu inherited a massive backlog of failed road and bridge projects. He, however, commended the President for his courage and determination to reverse the situation, citing commendations from stakeholders, including Arise Television Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena.
On the Benin–Warri highway, Umahi revealed that the contract earlier awarded to Levante Construction under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme had been terminated due to poor performance.
He commended Governor Okpebholo for stepping in to rehabilitate the first 23 kilometres, which was awarded to CBC, and urged him to extend the intervention to an additional nine kilometres.
“The quality of work is commendable. Contractors have been directed to reinforce the road base and ensure no weak points are left. President Tinubu has also approved the continuation of all abandoned projects despite funding constraints”, Umahi said.
Umahi also disclosed President Tinubu’s approval for a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State.
The project, being executed by Hi-Tech Construction Nigeria Limited, had initially excluded Edo from its alignment. But Umahi said Tinubu insisted on including Edo as a “special gift” in recognition of the governor’s commitment to infrastructure.
“Mr President has directed that 100 kilometres of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway must now pass through Edo. This is a reward for loyalty, leadership, and performance”, he said.
In his response, Governor Okpebholo thanked the President for what he described as a turning point in Edo’s infrastructure journey.
“The President treats me like a son. This 100km coastal highway is proof of his love for Edo State,” he said, also commending Umahi as “the best Minister for Works Nigeria has ever had.”
The Governor said his administration was determined to ensure quality infrastructure.
“We are determined to fix this road. If I do my part and the federal government does its part, nobody will criticise the President. For our people to trust us, we must act”, he stated.
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