The Federal Government has officially flagged off the reconstruction of the 125-kilometer Benin-Asaba Expressway, a vital road corridor in the southern part of the country.
The event, which took place on Sunday, was conducted on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, by Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo.
In his address, the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. (Sen.) David Umahi disclosed the project’s significance in enhancing transportation, economic growth, and regional integration.
He highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure as a means to boost national development and integration, noting that the partnership driving the project would enhance the safety and efficiency of travel while unlocking the region’s economic potential.
“This project will generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and an improved standard of living for the people. I urge all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure the successful and timely completion of this critical infrastructure,” the Minister stated.
He also added that, “The Benin–Asaba Expressway Project is more than a road. It is an ambitious dual carriageway, solar-lit, and is fully funded by the private sector under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement.”
On behalf of the government and the good people of Edo and Delta States, the Minister expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and unwavering support for infrastructure development in the region and the nation at large.
He also commended the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Chief Wale Edun, and the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for modifying an alternative funding option outside the national budget, which would guarantee the timely execution of Federal road projects.
He officially handed over the Engineering Design and Instruments of Authority for the contract to the Concessionaire, Africa Plus Partners (Nigeria) Limited, while canvassing for support in the 2027 Presidential polls.
In their various goodwill messages at the historic ceremony, the Governor of Delta State, represented by his Deputy, His Excellency Monday Onyeme, the Senator representing Edo North and former Governor, Adams Oshiomole, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State, and representatives from the Transport Union, praised Mr. President for the life-changing project, promising to overwhelmingly vote for him in 2027.
The Governor also pleaded with Mr. President to extend the alignment to the Onitsha Bridge.
In his closing remarks, the Governor of Edo State commended the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the Renewed Hope Administration of President Tinubu has prioritized road construction as a catalyst for economic transformation.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Ministries of Works and Finance in driving infrastructure renewal across the country.
“The impact of quality infrastructure cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which socio-economic growth and development are built. I commend President Tinubu’s administration for its visionary leadership in making this project a reality,” the Governor emphasized.
The flag-off of the Benin-Asaba Expressway marks a giant leap in Nigeria’s journey to providing modern, efficient, and well-maintained road infrastructure to its citizens. The Federal Government remains committed to completing this project on schedule, ensuring that citizens and businesses benefit from improved connectivity and its associated economic opportunities.
The Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) is a strategic infrastructure development program of the Federal Ministry of Works designed to encourage private sector participation in the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of Federal highways across the country.
Through this initiative, the government aims to enhance operational efficiency, accountability, and financial sustainability, ensuring that all stakeholders—the government, private investors, and road users—benefit from improved road networks.
As a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, HDMI is structured to attract long-term sustainable investments for the expansion, modernization, and effective utilization of Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
It facilitates the design, construction, operation, management, and maintenance of Federal highways, ensuring that all infrastructure and assets within the designated rights of way are efficiently developed and maintained, leveraging private sector expertise and funding.
(Agency Report)
