Edo Gets Tinubu’s Special Reward: 100km Coastal Highway Added To State’s Infrastructure Plan

According to Ireporter Online, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, have voiced strong concerns over the deplorable state of federal roads in Edo State, describing the plight of motorists as both tragic and unacceptable. The leaders made their remarks during an inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, where they lamented the years of neglect that have subjected commuters to severe hardship.

Speaking with journalists, Umahi explained that President Bola Tinubu inherited an overwhelming backlog of abandoned road and bridge projects, but has shown courage and determination in tackling the problem. He noted that it is almost impossible to travel 100 kilometres on federal highways without encountering serious challenges, but added that Nigerians are beginning to appreciate the President’s efforts to resolve the crisis.

Umahi also disclosed that the federal government terminated the contract of Levante Construction Company over poor performance on the Benin–Warri road and had since handed part of the project to Governor Okpebholo, who quickly engaged CBC Construction. He praised the quality of work being executed under the governor’s intervention while urging him to extend the rehabilitation to additional sections of the highway.

On his part, Governor Okpebholo recalled being nearly moved to tears during his personal inspection of the road, where he saw broken-down vehicles and frequent accidents. He emphasized that while the use of reinforced concrete may take longer, the method will deliver a lasting solution before the next rainy season. He maintained that both the federal and state governments must work together to restore public confidence and ensure timely completion of the project.

Later that evening, Umahi announced at an Independence Day dinner in Benin City that President Tinubu had approved a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State. The Minister revealed that the state was not originally part of the project, but the President insisted on its inclusion as a reward for Okpebholo’s loyalty and infrastructural commitment.

Reacting, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude, describing the approval as a turning point for Edo’s infrastructure. He lauded President Tinubu for treating him like a son and commended Umahi’s leadership, calling him the best Works Minister Nigeria has ever had.