FG flags off dualisation of Ajaokuta-Benin road project in Kogi, Edo states
Kunle Sanni
The Federal Government has officially flagged off the dualisation of the Ajaokuta Junction–Okene–Okpella–Auchi–Ekpoma–Benin Road project in Kogi and Edo States, following the termination of previous contracts due to non-performance and delays.
The flag-off ceremony, led by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, took place on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in Ekpoma, Edo State.
The project aims to provide a durable solution using Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) technology, designed to last between 50 and 100 years.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Umahi described the dire state of the road, which had caused severe hardship for commuters and motorists due to persistent failures and heavy traffic. He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered a permanent solution after receiving reports of the suffering faced by road users.
“This project has lingered for too long, with adverse effects on road users. The president’s directive for immediate action underscores his commitment to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians,” Umahi stated.
Highlighting the road’s importance, the minister noted that the route serves as a crucial link between the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) and the South-East, South-West, and South-South geopolitical zones. It is expected to significantly enhance economic connectivity across the country.
Umahi commended the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive involvement and cooperation in supporting both state and federal projects.
Representing President Tinubu at the event, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to the president for prioritizing infrastructure in Edo State. “With this project, light has entered Edo State,” he declared, pledging the state’s unwavering support for the president’s 2027 re-election bid.
The Deputy Governor of Kogi State, who represented his governor, also extended appreciation to the president for his commitment to improving infrastructure, assuring continued political support.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, praised President Tinubu’s dedication to national development and lauded Minister Umahi’s relentless drive to push critical infrastructure projects forward.
The dualisation project covers four sections along the Lokoja-Benin Road, with three sections running through Edo State:
- Section II: Okene to Auchi — 63.7 km (Awarded to CGC Nigeria Ltd.)
- Section III: Auchi to Ehor — 54.2 km (Awarded to BUA Construction Nigeria Ltd.)
- Section IV: Ehor to Benin — 67.9 km (Awarded to CBC Nigeria Ltd.)
The ongoing Section I (Obajana Junction to Ajaokuta Junction) is also being executed by CGC Nigeria Ltd.
Minister Umahi appealed to residents and road users for patience throughout the construction period, assuring them that the federal government is committed to delivering a high-quality, long-lasting solution.
He also directed contractors to accelerate the project’s execution, warning that delays would not be tolerated.
The project is expected to significantly improve road safety, ease traffic congestion, and boost economic activities across the region, reaffirming the Tinubu administration’s dedication to modernizing Nigeria’s infrastructure.
