BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
R-L: Director of Highways, Bridges and Design, Engr. Bede Uchechukwu Obioha; Minister of State for Works, Bello M. Goronyo, and Managing Director of Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), Dr. Adekanmbi Samuel at a meeting in Abuja recently.
Federal Government has pledged speedy intervention on deteriorated Benin–Sapele Road, particularly the section leading to Obayantor in Edo State.
The pledge followed a formal appeal by the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) which highlighted the road’s deteriorating condition and effect on socio-economic activities in the state.
At a meeting in Abuja, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi expressed concern over insecurity and economic paralysis stemming from the road’s poor condition.
Umahi was represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, during the strategic talks on the need for urgent intervention on the road.
He said: "I have listened with a heavy heart to your presentations. The kidnappings along that corridor, the economic losses, and direct threat to food security are not palatable. This is not just about roads; it's about national stability and the well-being of our people. I assure you that the ministry under the leadership of Engr. Umahi is committed to acting swiftly and decisively."
The Managing Director of Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) Dr. Adekanmbi Samuel provided a detailed account of the challenges along the 24-kilometre stretch, emphasising the insecurity, economic dislocation, and impact on agriculture and power infrastructure.
He harped on the importance of inter-agency collaboration in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emergency declaration on food security.
The Director of Highways, Bridges and Design, Engr. Bede Obioha, who represented the Permanent Secretary, acknowledged the urgency of the issues raised and commended the spirit of cooperation.
“We welcome engagements like this as they help us identify critical gaps. This ministry remains responsive and committed to resolving transport-related challenges, wherever they occur," he said.
He assured that the concerns raised would be captured for prompt action.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed in Abuja.
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