Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made a bold promise about the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin-Sapele Road, revealing that the new concrete pavement is expected to serve residents for up to 80 years before major maintenance will be needed.
The governor made the remark on Thursday during an inspection of the road project in Benin City. Moreover, he expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of work, describing the reconstruction as one of the state’s biggest infrastructure investments in recent years.
The announcement has drawn attention because many major roads across Nigeria develop faults only a few years after completion. However, Okpebholo insisted that the Benin-Sapele Road project was built with durability in mind and would stand the test of time.
Speaking during the inspection, Okpebholo commended the contractors for maintaining high construction standards.
“It is a quality job they are doing here. Everything is going on well,” Okpebholo said.
He also thanked President Tinubu for supporting the project financially.
“I have nothing else to say but to thank President Bola Tinubu for providing the funds. What you are seeing today is the result of somebody who has worked hard to make these resources available. That is why you are seeing this level of development in Edo today.”
Furthermore, the governor explained that the President remains committed to completing road projects across Nigeria because the necessary funding has already been provided.
He noted that the use of concrete pavement makes the project different from many traditional road constructions.
“Throughout this Sapele Road, you can see concrete pavement all the way. These are not empty promises; this is serious and expensive work,” he stated.
Okpebholo added that the investment was designed to deliver long-term value for residents and future generations.
“It is a quality job that will last for at least 80 years before we even need to think about major maintenance.”
Meanwhile, residents living around the project corridor have started noticing positive changes as construction progresses. Many believe traffic congestion has reduced significantly compared to previous years.
One of the residents, Mrs. Pat Ogie, a pensioner, recalled the difficulties commuters previously faced along the road.
“Before the coming of Governor Okpebholo, we used to experience heavy traffic on this road, but that has become a thing of the past. God will continue to bless our governor,” she said.
In addition, another resident, Mrs. Justina Osaghae, who works as a trader, praised the quality of the reconstruction. She described the project as a welcome development that would improve transportation for both residents and visitors.
The road serves as one of the busiest routes in Benin City, linking residential communities with commercial centres and supporting daily economic activities.
Consequently, many road users believe the improved highway will reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and make movement easier across the area.
Therefore, the governor’s claim that the project could last for decades has generated public interest, especially as many Nigerians continue to demand more durable infrastructure.
