Governance
GOV OKPEBHOLO STEPS UP URBAN RENEWAL EFFORTS, INSPECTS RAMAT PARK FLYOVER AND OTHER KEY PROJECTS
Governor Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday evening, carried out an unscheduled inspection of major infrastructure projects in Benin City, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fast-tracking Edo State’s urban renewal programme.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and made available to journalists.
The Governor first visited the ongoing Ramat Park Flyover before proceeding to a flood-ravaged community where residents trooped out to appreciate his swift intervention in tackling a decade-long erosion challenge.
At the Ramat Park Flyover site, Governor Okpebholo expressed satisfaction with the pace and standard of work, noting that progress had exceeded earlier projections. He stressed that his administration is fully dedicated to delivering durable, people-focused infrastructure that improves mobility, boosts commerce, and strengthens public confidence in governance.
Project Manager, Mr. Lee Jianshou, briefed the Governor on progress made so far, revealing that significant structural components had already been completed.
“On the second span, we have finished about 14 spans of the beam-launching and the remaining ones will be concluded before Christmas. We are working tirelessly to complete this phase so we can move fully to the next. With His Excellency’s support, we are confident of delivering by April 2026, latest, May 2026,” he said.
Commissioner for Works, Dr. Felix Akhabue, also praised the contractor for maintaining high standards while delivering ahead of schedule. He confirmed that engineers from the ministry were on-site daily to ensure full compliance with specifications.
“We are satisfied with the quality and the speed of work. The project is solid, and supervision is constant. Everything indicates we will complete ahead of schedule,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed that transparency, efficiency, and timely delivery remain central to his development strategy. He stressed that every project under his administration is intended to enhance the quality of life for Edo people.
“I am impressed with the pace of work. I didn’t expect this level of speed. From what I have seen today, I am confident they will deliver as agreed. My priority is for Edo people to see tangible results. I will continue to support this team to ensure we deliver this project for the benefit of everyone,” he assured.
The Governor also visited the erosion-prone community near Ramat Park, where excited residents welcomed him and commended his administration for finally addressing an issue that had rendered the area impassable for years.
The long-awaited intervention has renewed hope among residents and represents a key step toward ending persistent flooding in the area.
Project Manager, Mr. Lee Jianshou, explained that the team is constructing a comprehensive underground drainage system to channel stormwater from the Auchi–Benin Road corridor down to the waterside.
“After completing the drainage, we will asphalt the road to ease traffic around Ramat Park and permanently resolve the flooding challenges that have affected this area for years,” he stated.
Governor Okpebholo restated the purpose of the intervention, emphasising that it is aimed at restoring safety, accessibility, and dignity to the affected community.
“This project is designed to control the erosion that has been ravaging the Ramat Park axis. When it rains, this place becomes impassable. We are constructing underground drainage and will asphalt the road to make this area accessible for both residents and road users,” he said.