Okpebholo, Umahi Decry Poor State of Federal Roads in Edo ■ Tinubu Approves 100km Coastal Highway for Edo State

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, expressed deep concern over the deplorable condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the suffering of motorists as tragic and unacceptable.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and made available to journalists.

During their joint inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, the Governor and the Minister condemned the years of neglect that had worsened the plight of commuters. They commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his quick intervention and commitment to addressing infrastructural decay, while stressing the urgency of delivering long-term solutions.

Minister Umahi noted that it is nearly impossible to travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without facing serious challenges. He pointed out that President Tinubu inherited a backlog of failed road and bridge projects from past administrations but has shown determination to reverse the trend.

“President Tinubu met an overwhelming situation in terms of roads and bridges. You can’t travel 100 kilometres on federal roads without encountering serious difficulties. But the President is showing resolve, and Nigerians are already commending his efforts,” Umahi said.

The Minister highlighted commendations from prominent Nigerians, including Arise Television Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, as proof that the administration’s interventions are resonating with the public. He dismissed criticisms, stressing that Tinubu remains focused on delivering durable roads.

Umahi also praised Governor Okpebholo for stepping in to repair failed portions of the Benin–Warri highway after the termination of a poorly executed contract by Levante Construction Company under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme.

He revealed that only four kilometres of concrete pavement had been completed by Levante, while critical sections were neglected. The contract was eventually reassigned to CBC, whose work he described as commendable.

The Minister explained that the federal government had directed contractors to reinforce the road base and elevate the carriageway to ensure durability. He further appealed to the Governor to extend his intervention to additional sections.

Umahi assured that ongoing projects are designed with reinforced concrete technology capable of lasting 50 to 100 years. He directed contractors to fast-track work, even at night, while mandating the Federal Controller of Works in Edo to provide photographic progress reports.

He acknowledged funding challenges due to the suspension of the NNPC tax credit scheme but noted that President Tinubu has ordered the continuation of all affected projects. He also hinted at a new federal intervention in Edo, tagged the “Coastal Highway,” describing it as a special gift to the state.

Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, recalled his earlier inspection of the Benin–Warri road where he witnessed multiple accidents and stranded motorists, describing the experience as heartbreaking.

“I almost wept when I saw the number of vehicles, including trailers, that had broken down or fallen on this road. The situation demands urgent action, and I am glad the Minister has joined us to push for solutions,” the Governor said.

He emphasized that good roads are essential not only for the welfare of the people but also for sustaining public confidence in government. He assured that the use of concrete technology, though slow, would guarantee a permanent solution once completed before the next rainy season.

Later in the evening, a special Independence Day Dinner was held in honour of the Minister at the Edo State Government House Villa, Benin City, with top government officials, APC leaders, and traditional stakeholders in attendance.

At the event, Umahi announced on behalf of President Tinubu the approval of a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State — a state that was not originally included in the project’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, to loud applause.

The Governor thanked Tinubu for what he described as a turning point in Edo’s infrastructural journey, adding:
“The President treats me like a son. Whenever we request support, he responds with express approval. This 100km coastal highway is proof of his love for our state.”

Okpebholo also praised Umahi, describing him as the best Works Minister Nigeria has ever had.