Wild Jubilation as Momoh Joins Umahi, Oshiomhole, and Okpebholo to Inspect Ongoing Reconstruction of Benin-Abuja Road

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In a significant stride towards enhancing Nigeria’s infrastructure, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, recently spearheaded an inspection tour of the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin-Abuja express road, focusing on the critically impacted Ekpoma axis. Accompanying him were key figures: the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh; Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North; and the APC gubernatorial candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

The presence of such a high-powered delegation elicited widespread jubilation among residents and other Nigerians, underscoring the road’s importance. Addressing the assembled crowd, Umahi disclosed that the project had been reassigned to BUA after previous contractors—Dantata and Sawoe, Mother Cat, and RCC—failed to deliver despite receiving substantial payments. These contractors had abandoned the project even after a presidential revaluation approval that amounted to billions in variations.

Minister Umahi emphasized the government’s determination to rectify the situation, highlighting the significant efforts by Abubakar Momoh, Adams Oshiomhole, and Senator Monday Okpebholo. Their relentless advocacy and strategic negotiations were instrumental in securing an agreement with BUA to repair 60 kilometers of the road under a tax credit scheme. “The commitment of these leaders has been paramount in achieving this breakthrough,” Umahi stated. “We are here to ensure that this vital infrastructure project is completed efficiently and effectively.”

Engineer Abubakar Momoh recounted the challenging journey to garner presidential attention for the deteriorating road. “Since 2012, the contract has seen no significant progress, leading to the worst state of disrepair we’ve ever witnessed,” Momoh lamented. He recounted how he, Adams Oshiomhole, and Senator Monday Okpebholo had sleepless nights trying to get the president’s approval for the reconstruction of the road.

He expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu, Adams Oshiomhole, Senator Okpebholo, and David Umahi for their unwavering support and efforts. “Their dedication has made this day a reality, bringing hope and relief to our communities,” he added

Senator Adams Oshiomhole highlighted the necessity of holding the failed contractors accountable. “Nigerians deserve an explanation from those who took taxpayer money and neglected their duties,” Oshiomhole asserted. He expressed his joy and appreciation to President Tinubu, Minister Momoh, David Umahi, and Senator Okpebholo. “Today’s milestone is a testament to what we can achieve through collective effort and unwavering commitment,” he said.

Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC gubernatorial candidate, shared his elation and gratitude towards the leadership of President Tinubu, Minister Momoh, Adams Oshiomhole, and David Umahi. “This achievement brings immense joy and signifies a new era of development and progress for our people,” Okpebholo stated. He emphasized the project’s critical importance in boosting local and national development.

The Benin-Abuja road holds immense strategic importance for both Edo State residents and Nigerians nationwide. Serving as a major arterial route, it facilitates the seamless movement of goods, services, and people between the southern and northern regions, thereby playing a crucial role in commerce and socio-economic activities. The road’s reconstruction is not merely an infrastructure improvement; it is the restoration of a vital link that supports economic growth and national integration.

For the people of Edo, the road is a crucial conduit connecting them to major cities and markets, enabling trade and access to essential services. The improved infrastructure will enhance safety, reduce travel time, and lower vehicle operating costs, thereby bolstering the local economy and improving the quality of life for residents.

The reconstruction of the Benin-Abuja road marks a pivotal step in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure deficits. The concerted efforts of government officials and stakeholders have not only brought relief to affected communities but also demonstrated the power of collective action in achieving national development goals.

The jubilant response during the inspection tour is a testament to the road’s profound importance and the hope it brings for a better future for Edo people and all Nigerians. This project is a beacon of progress, highlighting the potential for transformative change through dedicated leadership and strategic collaboration.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah serves as a Special Assistant to the Honorable Minister of Niger Delta Development.