The Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. Dave Umahi, has described Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, as an “infrastructure governor” in recognition of his commitment to road construction and other developmental projects within his first 100 days in office.
Umahi made the remark on Thursday while addressing journalists in Benin City after inspecting the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin-Warri Road at the Sapele Bypass axis.
The minister commended Governor Okpebholo’s proactive approach to infrastructure, noting that his administration is building on the developmental foundation laid by former Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
“It is exciting to see a new governor who identifies what is good, embraces it, and continues with it. Governor Okpebholo is an infrastructure governor, considering his achievements in just 100 days,” Umahi stated.
He urged the Edo State Government to collaborate with the contractor to address critical sections of the Benin-Warri Road and ensure timely completion before the rainy season. He also called for the state’s partnership with Senator Adams Oshiomhole in seeking the President’s intervention to secure additional funds for the project.
“The federal government cannot provide all the funds required to complete this project before the rains. The state government must intervene,” Umahi emphasized.
He noted that under the new governance approach, states are expected to actively participate in federal road projects rather than merely placing signposts without contributing to their execution.
Governor Okpebholo, in his response, appreciated Minister Umahi and Senator Oshiomhole for their commitment to the project. He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to ensure that Edo people benefit from improved road infrastructure.
“The federal government’s work on this road is essentially for Edo people, so we must take ownership of the project. We will also engage with the President, who will surely listen to us. I believe he will not abandon Edo State when we need him the most,” Okpebholo said.
Speaking on behalf of host communities, Pastor Moses Osagiede of Ogheghe commended the minister for fulfilling his promise on the project, while also calling for adequate funding to ensure its timely completion.
The Minister of Works also held discussions with the contractor, Governor Okpebholo, and Engr. Clement Ogbuagu, Director of Highways Construction and Rehabilitation at the Federal Ministry of Works, focused on strategies for the seamless completion of the Benin-Warri Road.
With Umahi’s assurance of federal commitment and Governor Okpebholo’s infrastructure-driven agenda, residents of Edo State look forward to a significant transformation in road development.
