Works Ministry, NDDC, Others Intervene in Benin Bypass Deplorable Condition
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the Federal Ministry of Works, the Edo State Government, and other stakeholders have commenced an urgent intervention to address
The Federal government, along with the NDDC, the Ministry of Works, Edo State Government, and other stakeholders, have begun urgent action to fix the poor state of highways linking Edo and Delta States. NDDC's Corporate Affairs Director, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, announced this in a statement on Wednesday. The group, which included the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, inspected the failed portions of the Benin-Sapele-Warri and Benin-Agbor roads.
Umahi emphasized the federal government's dedication to resolving the deteriorating road conditions and implementing immediate, lasting solutions along this crucial corridor. This response came after President Bola Tinubu's directive in light of the deteriorating condition of key roadways causing significant inconvenience to travelers, residents, and businesses.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Works, alongside the Edo State Government, invited the NDDC and major construction firms operating along the Benin–Asaba axis for a joint inspection of the problematic sections. Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director, revealed that the commission received numerous complaints about the struggles faced by motorists on the Benin-Sapele corridor.
This area, essential to the region, has become impassable, leading to traffic congestion and severe economic setbacks. Ogbuku noted that the NDDC and the Ministry of Works would collaborate on the intervention to ensure the remedial work aligns with the road's original design and can withstand time. He highlighted the NDDC's commitment to President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda by delivering vital infrastructure improvements that boost connectivity, spur economic activity, and enhance the quality of life for Nigerians.
Edo State Governor, Okpebholo, praised President Tinubu's swift response, stating that the intervention would swiftly halt the degradation of the critical highway. He emphasized that Edo State's strategic location makes the poor condition of the highway a national issue, given its role as a gateway to multiple regions in southern Nigeria.
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