Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Edo State, NigeriaÂ
In a decisive move to address the deplorable state of the Benin/Auchi Road, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has announced plans for a critical meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 12.
The meeting will bring together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Government, Dangote Group, and BUA Plc, to discuss and formulate short-term solutions for the dilapidated road.
Governor Obaseki made the disclosure during a press briefing at the Government House in Benin City over the weekend. This announcement followed a closed-door meeting with the Minister for Works and Housing, Engr. David Umahi.
Expressing concern about the dire condition of the Benin/Auchi Road, Governor Obaseki appealed to the Federal Government to consider the concession of the road to the Edo State Government as a long-term solution. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts, stating, “The issue of roads can’t be left to one stakeholder alone; we all must come to work together.”
The governor acknowledged the repeated protests by youths regarding the poor state of the road and assured the public of the government’s commitment to fulfilling promises made for remedial action. Governor Obaseki outlined immediate measures, stating, “We have agreed with the Minister that we would send one of our contractors immediately to go in there next week to commence palliative work in some very bad sections of the road.”
Specifically, the focus of the palliative work will be on the sections around Agbede, between Ekpoma and Irrua-axis, and some other portions towards Uhunmwode Local Government Area, totaling approximately 30km. Notably, stakeholders such as Dangote and BUA cement companies, recognized as heavy users of the Benin/Auchi Road, will be part of the discussions to ensure their involvement in the road’s rehabilitation.
Governor Obaseki expressed urgency in addressing the road’s condition before the rainy season and highlighted its critical role as a major transport artery for petroleum products and food from the North to the South.
Acknowledging the Minister for Works and Housing’s responsiveness to the state’s road challenges, Governor Obaseki expressed gratitude for the proactive approach taken ahead of the rainy season. He emphasized the need for a collaborative effort to build sustainable roads using local materials, suggesting a shift towards concrete as a more durable alternative to expensive asphalt.
Looking towards the long term, Governor Obaseki advocated for the concession of the road to the Edo State Government. He concluded by stating, “Before the end of this year, we would push for the concession of the road and would try to achieve this bpefore leaving office.”