The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, have expressed deep concern over the worsening condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the hardship faced by motorists as “tragic and unacceptable.”

Naijaonpoint reports that the duo spoke on Wednesday during an inspection tour of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, where they decried the daily suffering of commuters, saying the problem reflects “years of neglect that can no longer be ignored.”

No Motorist Can Travel 100km Without Trouble – Umahi

Addressing journalists after the inspection, Umahi noted that motorists across the country continue to endure severe challenges on federal highways.

“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 explained that President Bola Tinubu inherited a backlog of abandoned road and bridge projects from past administrations, but has shown “courage, commitment and determination” to reverse the situation.

He cited commendations from respected Nigerians, including Arise Television Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, as evidence that the administration’s road efforts are gaining recognition.

Levante Contract Terminated, New Firm Takes Over

Umahi also praised Governor Okpebholo for stepping in to address failed portions of the Benin-Warri road after the termination of Levante Construction Company’s contract under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme.

According to him, the firm executed only four kilometres of reinforced concrete pavement in stable sections, neglecting critical portions despite repeated warnings.

“The contract was terminated after months of delay and poor work. We appealed to Governor Okpebholo to take over the first 23 kilometres, which he promptly awarded to CBC. The quality of their work is commendable,” Umahi stated.

He revealed that the federal government has directed contractors to reinforce the road base, elevate the carriageway, and ensure lasting durability.

Naijaonpoint reports that the Minister further urged the governor to extend his intervention to an additional nine kilometres, assuring that all federal projects under Tinubu are now designed with reinforced concrete technology to last “between 50 and 100 years.”

‘I Almost Wept’ – Governor Okpebholo

On his part, Okpebholo recalled his recent personal inspection of the road, where he was moved to tears by the number of accidents and stranded motorists.

“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 stressed that durable infrastructure was not only vital for public welfare but also for the ruling party’s credibility.

According to him, although the concrete technology may slow construction, the project will deliver a lasting solution before the next rainy season.

“We are determined to fix this road. If I do my part and the federal government does its part, nobody will criticize the President. With more contractors on site, this project can be delivered on schedule,” Okpebholo affirmed.

Tinubu Approves 100km Coastal Highway for Edo

Later in the evening, Umahi was hosted to a special Independence Day dinner at the Edo State Government House Villa, Benin City, in celebration of Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.

At the event, attended by top government officials, former deputy governors, lawmakers, APC leaders and traditional rulers, the Minister made a major announcement on behalf of President Tinubu: the approval of a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State.

“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 as he received thunderous applause from the gathering.

He explained that the state was not originally included in the project, but President Tinubu insisted on Edo’s inclusion as a reward for Governor Okpebholo’s loyalty and infrastructural drive.

Other states benefitting from the multi-billion-naira project include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km).

‘Tinubu Treats Me Like a Son’ – Okpebholo

In his response, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, describing the approval as “a turning point in Edo’s infrastructure journey.”

“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,” he said.

The governor also showered praises on Umahi, recalling their brief time together in the Senate, where his first motion was on Edo’s bad roads, a matter he said has now found divine fulfilment with Umahi as Works Minister.

Commending the Minister in a statement issued on Thursday, October 2, by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo said: “He is the best Minister for Works Nigeria has ever had.”