Excitement is building across the Ikpoba Hill and Ramat Park axis of Benin City as residents, traders and motorists praise the ongoing construction of the Ikpoba Hill Flyover, the first of its kind in Edo State under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
Many locals describe the project as a long-awaited solution to chronic traffic congestion and a major step toward economic growth and urban renewal in the area.
Speaking on the impact of the flyover, Mr. Lawrence Agwanhima said the project would not only ease movement but also enhance the visual appeal of the environment. According to him, business activities have long suffered due to poor traffic flow, a problem he believes the flyover will finally address.
“This project will boost the economy here and also beautify the area. Movement used to be very difficult, but this flyover is a welcome development. The governor should continue this good work,” he said.
Responding to concerns about possible misuse of spaces beneath the bridge, Agwanhima dismissed such worries, noting that similar issues existed long before construction began and should not be allowed to hinder development.
For Mrs. Ese Juliet, the flyover represents relief from years of frustrating gridlock, especially during busy market days. She expressed optimism that the project would significantly reduce travel time and improve daily life for commuters and traders alike.
“Traffic here is always terrible, especially on market days. With this bridge, things will get better. I only hope the government completes it on time and considers expanding the road so traffic doesn’t return,” she said.
A young trader at Ramat Park, Master David Okhaishebor, also welcomed the project, describing it as a smart and innovative move by the state government. He believes smoother traffic flow will translate into better business opportunities for traders in the area.
“This flyover is a good idea. Hold-ups will reduce and vehicles will move freely. It will help businesses. It will also be good if the bridge is properly secured so people don’t turn it into a sleeping place,” he added.
Mr. Chijioke Akaru, a pharmacist who has run a shop at Ramat Park for over three decades, said the flyover would have lasting economic benefits for Edo State. Drawing from years of experience, he noted that traffic congestion has long hurt businesses in the area.
“This project will reduce the go-slow at Ikpoba Hill and improve the economy of the state. I have been here for over 30 years, and I know how much traffic has affected businesses,” he said.
The Ikpoba Hill Flyover stands as a flagship infrastructure initiative of the Okpebholo administration, designed to ease traffic congestion, stimulate economic activities and modernize the outlook of Benin City. Residents remain hopeful that timely completion of the project will further improve mobility and support sustainable development across Edo State.
