***Okpebholo’s Rapid Development Earns National Praise
In a defining moment for Edo State’s infrastructural transformation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the construction of the 125km Benin-Asaba Highway, a landmark project expected to be completed within 30 months.
Represented by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s road networks and boosting economic activities.
However, beyond the highway’s significance, the event became a testament to Governor Okpebholo’s rapid transformation of Edo State, with Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, hailing his leadership as “visionary” and “game-changing.”
The chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua in a statement indicated that with barely 150 days in office, Governor Okpebholo has turned Edo into a massive construction site, with key projects like the Ramat Park Flyover in Benin City already underway.
Umahi, visibly impressed, described the governor’s leadership as divinely ordained, stating:
“You have taken Edo’s development into your own hands. Instead of waiting for the Federal Government, you are delivering critical infrastructure for the people. This is real governance.”
The Minister further emphasized the role of infrastructure in economic growth, noting that the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model will ensure the highway is completed without financial delays.
The presence of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, further underscored the highway’s importance.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori urged the Federal Government to extend the project to Onitsha Bridge, solidifying Edo and Delta as key economic gateways in Southern Nigeria.
Managing Director of Africa Plus Partners, Adeniran Ajakaye, revealed that a section of the highway, from King Square to the bypass, will feature a 10-lane carriageway, ensuring faster and smoother travel.
Governor Okpebholo assured President Tinubu of Edo’s unwavering support, stating that the President’s re-election bid in 2027 will be a top priority for the state.
“Edo people now feel the impact of true leadership. The President always asks about the welfare of our people and the Oba of Benin. Come 2027, we will stand solidly behind him.”
With the Benin-Asaba Highway now in motion and Governor Okpebholo steering Edo into an era of bold infrastructural expansion, the state is fast emerging as a model for progress in Nigeria’s renewed development agenda.