Residents of Ogba-Evbuodia, Uholor, Irhue-Obagie and other adjoining communities in Oredo Local Government Area have praised Monday Okpebholo for ongoing road infrastructure projects that they say are transforming the area and boosting economic activities.
The communities said the governor’s SHINE Agenda has continued to prioritize road construction across the three senatorial districts of Edo State, creating vital links between communities and opening up rural and semi-urban areas for development.
A major highlight is the ongoing construction of the Upper Airport Road, described as a strategic route that, when completed, will connect several communities to Upper Ekenwan Road. The link road is expected to improve access to Ogba-Evbuodia, Evbuobioba and Irhue-Obagie, while stimulating trade and investment in the axis.
Residents expressed appreciation for the phase one construction of the Ogba-Evbuodia–Evbuobioba road with a spur to Irhue-Obagie, linking Upper Ekenwan Road and equipped with culverts. They described the project as a long-awaited intervention after years of neglect by previous administrations.
Mr. Moses Odeo, a commercial motorcyclist in Uholor Community, commended the contractors for the quality and pace of work since construction began after the Ogba River Bridge along Airport Road.
According to him, commercial activities in the area have significantly improved, noting that the once muddy and nearly impassable road during the rainy season is now motorable, reducing travel time and easing movement for residents.
Also speaking, a landlord in Evbuobioba Community, Mr. Edward Okunzuwa, said the road was previously in a deplorable condition, making transportation of agricultural produce difficult. He added that the improved infrastructure has restored confidence among residents and investors and is expected to further enhance economic growth and security once completed.
An estate agent, Nurudeen Ekhorutomwen, described the project as a welcome development, noting that the road links several emerging estates and communities in the area.
“We want to appreciate Governor Okpebholo for delivering a quality road that will greatly improve economic activities here,” he said.
Providing updates on the project, the Team Lead of Gladtrico International Ltd and contractor handling the Iyekogba Road project, Engr. Tamiyu Ibrahim, explained that the construction stretches from Ogba River to Uholor, with a spur to Evbuobioba linking Ekenwan Road.
He said significant progress has been made, with most of the concrete works nearing completion. The team is currently focusing on earthworks and pavement, including the laying of stone base, after which asphalt work will resume.
Ibrahim added that about seven kilometres of line drainage and seven ring covers have already been constructed to channel floodwater from the communities to the river, ensuring durability of the road.
Residents say the project, upon completion, will not only improve connectivity but also strengthen economic growth and overall development in the benefiting communities.
