Edo Refinery Redefines CSR, Carries Out Palliative Repairs of Benin-Sapele-Warri Highway

Edo Refinery and Petrochemical Ltd has stepped in to repair parts of the Benin-Sapele-Warri highway as part of its corporate and social responsibility (CSR). The refinery, located in Benin City, Delta State, expressed concern over frequent stories of trucks and heavy-duty vehicles breaking down on the highway. The palliative repairs were carried out at various sections including Iyanomo, Ekosa, Obayantor, Ologbo, and Koko junction in Delta State.

Segun Okeni, the Head of Technical Operations at Edo Refinery, explained that the company acted swiftly after an incident in 2018 where an oil tanker carrying petrol crashed at the Ologbo spot, resulting in a fire that killed over 20 people. This accident prompted the refinery to undertake repairs on the failed portions of the highway, which had been causing significant disruptions to their operations.

As the refinery is just two kilometers from the affected area, it was essential for them to collaborate with the civil engineering firm, SODEOSA Global Resources, to fix the road.

Mr. Solomon Uyiekpen, the Managing Director of SODEOSA Global Resources, highlighted that the repair work not only benefited the refinery but also the local communities. Commuters had been suffering due to the poor road conditions, which led to accidents and blocked access to the refinery. By collaborating with Edo Refinery, the civil engineering firm aimed to improve the quality of life for those living around the area.

Community members from Obayantor and Koko junction expressed their gratitude towards Edo Refinery for carrying out the repairs. Kennedy Nwazekwu, a member of the Obayantor community, stated that the repair work would prevent incessant accidents on the road, which have resulted in the loss of 20 lives. Agofure Eriwona, a community member from Koko junction, praised Edo Refinery's efforts, noting that the project would make it easier for vehicles to move around the area.