Traders, business owners and residents along the Sapele Road corridor in Benin City have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for the ongoing rehabilitation of the long-neglected Benin–Sapele Road.
Many described the road repairs as a major relief after years of hardship caused by its poor condition, which they said disrupted daily life, slowed commercial activities and drove customers away.
A commercial transporter, Amadi Great, expressed gratitude to the state government, saying the road was previously impassable.
“I can’t thank the governor enough except to say God bless him. This place where I am standing now was impossible to access before. Even when Governor Obaseki was in office, his vehicle once got stuck here. Thank God Governor Okpebholo has done this for us,” he said.
A second-hand clothing trader, Mrs. Romary Obazee, said the impact of the road repairs was already evident in improved patronage.
“We are very happy now. Before, the road was terrible and customers found it difficult to come here. Today, vehicles move easily and transporting goods is no longer a problem. Our sales have improved,” she said, while urging the government to ensure contractors complete the remaining sections promptly, especially with the rainy season approaching.
Similarly, a battery and car accessories dealer, Mr. Richard Erahbor, recalled how the area was often cut off during rainfall.
“This place used to be flooded and impassable whenever it rained. Now, the road is good and motorable. We can truly say this government has kept its promise. Business is better because people can now move freely,” he said.
A vulcanizer, Mr. Osaro Nosa, also noted that the improved road has brought back customers and boosted daily earnings for traders along the axis.
Residents further praised the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, and Governor Okpebholo for personally inspecting the project to ensure quality delivery and proper use of public funds.
While several failed sections of the road have been fixed, reconstruction is still ongoing in other areas. From Ring Road through Sapele Road to the bypass, the improved road network has eased traffic flow and revived business activities, restoring hope to residents and traders along the busy corridor.
