Residents and road users in Edo State have called for the speedy completion of the Benin-Warri-Sapele Road, saying faster construction would ease transportation challenges and revive businesses along the corridor.

The residents also commended the Federal and Edo State governments for work already carried out on the road, which they said had suffered years of deterioration.

The development was reported by South-South PUNCH after its correspondent visited the bypass section of the road in Ogheghe.

The road reportedly received renewed attention after Governor Monday Okpebholo assumed office, with the state government taking over the reconstruction of a significant portion following Federal Government approval.

Other sections are also being handled by the Federal Government, providing some relief for motorists and commuters travelling between Edo and Delta states.

Driver urges government to speed up work

A driver, John Osa, who said he had used the road for more than 15 years, welcomed the ongoing reconstruction.

“I am excited that the road is being reconstructed. But the government must put more effort so that the work can be finished on time,” Osa said.

He urged the authorities to intensify construction efforts to improve the movement of passengers and goods along the route.

A motorcycle rider, Aliyu Dahiru, also commended the Edo State Government for intervening in the road’s reconstruction.

Dahiru said poor road conditions had previously forced motorists and motorcycle riders to spend more money repairing their vehicles.

Business owners hope reconstruction revives trade

Business owners along the affected corridor also expressed optimism that completing the reconstruction would restore commercial activities in the area.

A businesswoman identified simply as Joy said the poor condition of the road had forced several businesses to shut down or relocate.

“I only just reopened my shop and the business is picking up gradually,” she said.

Joy expressed confidence that commercial activities would improve further once the reconstruction is completed.

She also thanked the governments responsible for the ongoing work.

Residents welcome Umahi’s inspection

Another resident, Francis, said travelling time on the road had already reduced since reconstruction began.

He expressed hope that the recent inspection of the project by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, would accelerate completion.

“I am happy that the minister was here recently to inspect the road; it means that the federal government is interested in the completion of the road,” Francis said.

During the minister’s inspection, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) announced plans to take over about 15.4 kilometres of the road.

The commission also promised to work with officials of Edo and Delta states to ensure seamless execution of the project.

Residents are now urging the relevant authorities to sustain the momentum and complete the remaining sections as quickly as possible.

They believe a fully reconstructed Benin-Warri-Sapele Road would improve transportation, reduce vehicle maintenance costs and support businesses along the corridor.

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The upgraded road, funded under the federal government’s Tax Credit Scheme by the Dangote Group, serves as a vital link to the Lekki Deep Seaport—one of West Africa’s largest maritime hubs. The project is expected to enhance connectivity and ease of doing business in the region.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu also toured the Dangote Refinery, a 650,000 barrels-per-day facility, making it his first official visit to the site since assuming office in May 2023.

The event drew high-profile dignitaries including Africa’s wealthiest entrepreneur, Aliko Dangote; Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist, Bill Gates; Chairman of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola.

Several state governors were also present, including Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), and Babagana Zulum (Borno). Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, also attended.

The reconstructed road is expected to streamline cargo movement from the port and boost logistics capacity, supporting the Lekki corridor’s emergence as a key industrial and commercial zone.

Officials say the project reflects a growing commitment to public-private collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure needs and is poised to help position the country as a major trade gateway in West Africa.

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