By Richard Eweka
Gov Monday Okpebholo is taking doubt, fear and anxiety off the minds of Edo people who before now are afraid of the fate of the State and their well-being following the experience of the last administration’s bad performance style which affected the people negatively.
But Gov Okpebholo is quietly breaking ground, setting records, putting smiles on the faces of citizens and the people are feeling the impact of true leadership under this administration as practical governance becomes visible through several tangible projects that are already touching lives and changing economic realities faced by Edo people.
In his inauguration speech at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on November 12, 2024, the venue of his swearing-in ceremony, Governor Monday Okpebholo clearly outlined his administration’s development priorities.
He stated: “Our policy to develop road infrastructure is targeted at constructing roads, drainages and bridges, to ease transportation for all.” That declaration has since translated into concrete action across Edo State.
Barely 24 hours after assuming office, Governor Okpebholo began addressing deplorable road conditions across the state. On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, he embarked on his first inspection tour of key roads within Benin City, including Upper Mission Extension by Aduwawa Junction, Ramat Park axis, Temboga Road and Lucky Way Junction, among others. The tour underscored his administration’s immediate focus on infrastructure, particularly roads, drainages and bridges, as drivers of economic growth and urban renewal.
From the onset, the governor emphasized that all ongoing projects are based strictly on the real needs of communities rather than personal or political considerations. According to him, his leadership style is guided by firsthand appreciation of the daily challenges faced by residents due to poor road networks, and a determination to deliver practical solutions.
COMMITMENT ON ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE
Following his victory at the September 21, 2024 governorship election, the Okpebholo-led administration has maintained strong momentum in infrastructure delivery. The government has focused on connecting communities through improved road networks and the construction of strategic bridges, notably at Ramat Park and Adesuwa Junction along Sapele Road. The broader vision, the governor has repeatedly stated, is to reposition Edo State, Nigeria’s historic gateway, as a major transportation hub.
In his inaugural address, Governor Okpebholo openly acknowledged the poor condition of roads across the state and pledged immediate action. He said the situation had severely restricted movement and economic activities, assuring residents that his administration would commence urgent rehabilitation works while also partnering with the Federal Government, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, the diaspora and other stakeholders to drive holistic development.
OBADAN ROAD/UPPER MISSION EXTENSION
One of the first locations visited by the governor was the failed portion of Obadan Junction Road along the Benin–Ekpoma Expressway. He described the road as a vital link between the South, East and Northern parts of the country, stressing the urgency of restoring it to full motorable condition. Although it is a federal road, the governor made it clear that jurisdiction would not stand in the way of public interest, noting that the state could later seek reimbursement from the Federal Government after carrying out repairs.
Attention was also directed at the Upper Mission Extension by Aduwawa Junction, where failed sections were promptly rehabilitated following repeated inspections by the governor. These swift interventions ensured that contractors delivered quality work within record time, restoring smooth traffic flow and easing the burden on motorists.
TEMBOGA ROAD AND RAVAGING GULLY
At Temboga Road, Governor Okpebholo confronted the long-standing challenge of severe gully erosion that had displaced residents and destroyed properties. He recalled that during his campaign visit, the scale of devastation left a deep impression on him. Fulfilling his campaign promise, the administration reclaimed the eroded land, enabling displaced residents to return to their homes and restoring confidence in government intervention.
RAMAT PARK FLYOVER
A major highlight of the administration’s infrastructure drive is the construction of the Ramat Park flyover, the first of its kind in Edo State. Commenced on November 18, 2024, barely a week into his tenure, the project is designed to ease congestion along the Benin–Auchi and Benin–Asaba expressways. Governor Okpebholo also announced additional flyovers at Dawson Road Junction and Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road Junction. The Ramat Park flyover is currently about 70 percent completed, with accompanying flood control measures, gully reclamation works and extensive drainage systems. Work has also commenced simultaneously on the Sapele Road/Adesuwa flyover.
COLLABORATIONS STRATEGY
Beyond direct execution, the administration has leveraged strategic collaborations to accelerate infrastructure delivery. Through partnerships with the Federal Government and key stakeholders, including First Bank of Nigeria Plc, several federal and state roads across the 18 local government areas are receiving attention. Notable among these are the reconstruction of failed sections of the Benin–Sapele–Warri Road using continuous reinforced concrete pavement, and rehabilitation works along the Benin–Auchi Road from Obadan Junction to Iruekpen.
In a novel financing approach, the Edo State Government has provided a ₦100 billion credit guarantee to contractors executing critical infrastructure projects, facilitated by First Bank Plc. This facility, which is not a loan to the state, allows contractors to access funds directly based on project demands, with a tenure of 40 months. Priority projects under this arrangement include flyovers, major arterial roads, internal roads, and drainage systems across Edo South, Central and North.
BUDGETARY PROVISIONS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE
Budgetary provisions further reflect the administration’s commitment to infrastructure. In the 2026 budget presentation, Governor Okpebholo disclosed that 28 new road projects covering 255 kilometres had been awarded, including the two landmark flyovers in Benin City. The ₦939 billion “Budget of Hope and Growth” allocates ₦637 billion, representing 68 percent, to capital expenditure, underscoring the government’s emphasis on visible and impactful development.
To ensure value for money, the governor has maintained a hands-on approach through regular project inspections. He has repeatedly warned contractors to adhere strictly to specifications and timelines or risk contract termination. This stance was evident during inspections in Orior-Ozolua Community and along the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Road off Ekehuan Road, where contractors were cautioned over slow pace and substandard work.
Across Edo South, Central and North, numerous road projects are either ongoing or completed, spanning urban centers, semi-urban areas and rural communities. These projects are steadily improving connectivity, boosting economic activities and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Through decisive leadership, strategic partnerships and sustained investment in infrastructure, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda is steadily reshaping Edo State. The emphasis on roads, bridges and drainage systems is not only addressing long-standing challenges but also laying a solid foundation for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
