Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering the ongoing Sapele Road reconstruction project on schedule, following an inspection tour of key flood control facilities and adjoining road networks in Benin City.
The reconstruction of Sapele Road—an important Federal Government road linking the entire South-South zone—is being fully funded by the Edo State Government.
During the weekend tour, Governor Okpebholo assessed 1.5 kilometers of completed surface drains, a one-kilometer underground channel, and 1.6 kilometers of underground canal built to curb perennial flooding around the corridor. The project also features a 200mm reinforced concrete pavement structure, with over five kilometers of rigid pavement and 5.5 kilometers of stone base already in place.
He also inspected connecting roads around the axis, expressing confidence that the Ogheghe Road project, off Sapele Road, will be completed by December 2025, in line with the contractor’s pledge.
The inspection route began at Mousco Junction and covered major intersections including PZ, Agip, Ekae Junction, Winners, RCCG Junction, and Evbukhu, before terminating at Ogheghe and Old Ogheghe Roads.
Governor Okpebholo further inspected four kilometers of drainage channels beyond the portion initially awarded to Levante Construction Company, whose contract had been terminated.
Demonstrating hands-on leadership, the Governor trekked over two kilometers along the project corridor, personally checking pavement thickness, reinforcement rods, and adherence to contract standards. He was warmly welcomed by motorists, traders, and residents, who praised the intervention for easing traffic congestion and restoring the road’s functionality.
“With what I have seen today, we are on track. The contractors have promised to deliver by December, and we will support them with timely payments to ensure they meet the deadline,” Governor Okpebholo assured.
Special Adviser on Project Implementation and Monitoring, Engr. (Mrs.) Phoebe U. Williams-Bello, reinforced the Governor’s stance, noting that the inspection was to enforce strict compliance with standards.
“So far, 1.5 kilometers of surface drains and one kilometer of underground channels have been completed. The contractors are working to schedule, and the project is on course for December completion,” she explained.
Project Engineer, Engr. Ademola, confirmed that surface drains at Ogheghe have been delivered, alongside 1.2 kilometers of the planned 1.6-kilometer underground canal at Old Sapele Road. He added that the next phase—reinforced concrete pavement—will commence soon.
“We are confident that the December deadline is realistic. The reinforced concrete design ensures durability, and once completed, the Ogheghe corridor will provide a lasting solution to flooding and traffic challenges,” Ademola stated.
