The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially commenced the construction of a flyover at the strategic Ramat Park in Benin City.
This project aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion while boosting the city’s economic and social development.
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, revealed the development in a press statement issued on Tuesday.
The statement highlighted the governor’s commitment to infrastructure development, with plans for two additional flyovers at Dawson Road Junction and Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road Junction, both within the city.
Addressing attendees at the groundbreaking ceremony, Okpebholo emphasized the transformative impact of the Ramat Park flyover.
He noted that the location serves as a critical gateway to Benin City and connects other parts of the country via the Benin-Auchi Motorway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway.
“Ramat Park Flyover will provide a new lease of life for motorists in Benin City and commuters along these two corridors: the Benin-Auchi Motorway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway,” the governor remarked. “This project will not only ease transportation but also position Edo State for enhanced economic growth and tourism development.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to fulfilling campaign promises made to Edo residents, noting that the flyovers were part of his commitment to decongesting the city’s roadways.
“This is the first flyover we are constructing, and we are going to construct more. There will be one by Dawson Road Junction and another one by Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road Junction,” he assured.
Highlighting Benin City’s historical significance as Africa’s first capital city during the 14th-century European expeditions, Governor Okpebholo underscored the importance of giving the city a modern facelift to attract tourism and further development.
He also appealed to motorists for patience during the 18-month construction period, urging them to cooperate with contractors.
He commended CCECC Nigeria Limited, the construction firm handling the project, and encouraged them to maintain a steady work pace to meet the set deadline.
“I appreciate the Speaker and other honourable members of the House of Assembly for their cooperation. To the contractor, CCECC Nigeria Limited, we look forward to seeing you work day and night to meet the 18-month completion period,” he stated.
Residents and stakeholders have praised the governor’s bold initiative. Amen Ogbemudia, daughter of a former governor of Edo State and a resident in the area, lauded Governor Okpebholo’s visionary leadership.
“The steps he has taken have shown that he means well for the Edo people,” she remarked.
Similarly, Emmanuel Aigbogun, a youth representative from the Oregbeni Community, applauded the governor for fulfilling his campaign promise.
“You made a promise, and you are here to fulfill that promise today by doing the groundbreaking and flag-off of the Ramat Park flyover. We are behind you and will continue to support your administration,” he said.
The Ramat Park flyover project is expected to significantly alleviate traffic issues in the bustling city while laying the groundwork for sustainable urban development and improved quality of life for residents.
