The Edo State Government has begun implementing a broad-based plan to rehabilitate roads across the state, combining local council participation, emergency repair teams, and large-scale construction projects to address longstanding infrastructure challenges.

For years, poor road conditions across urban and rural areas have disrupted movement, increased transport costs, and affected economic activities. The situation has been particularly evident in Benin City and surrounding communities, where deteriorating roads have hindered commerce and daily life.

Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration is now pursuing a coordinated response aimed at accelerating repairs and ensuring wider coverage. The approach involves delegating project identification to local government authorities, deploying rapid intervention teams for urgent fixes, and contracting major firms for extensive reconstruction works.

At the grassroots level, local councils are being engaged to identify priority roads within their jurisdictions. The move is intended to fast-track decision-making and ensure that critical routes—such as those linking farms, schools, and healthcare centres—receive prompt attention across the state’s three senatorial districts.

In addition, newly introduced rapid response units have been tasked with handling emergency situations and minor repairs. These teams are expected to address issues such as potholes, drainage blockages, and erosion threats, reducing delays that previously prolonged infrastructure damage.

For major highways and high-traffic routes, the government is working with established construction companies to deliver large-scale projects. Key roads under reconstruction include the Benin-Sapele-Warri road and the Benin-Agbor-Asaba highway, alongside plans for flyovers at congestion points such as Ramat Park and Dawson Road Junction.

Authorities say the initiative also places emphasis on quality control. Contracts that fail to meet required standards have been revoked, while compliant contractors are being recognised.

Regular inspections are being carried out to ensure adherence to specifications and accountability in project execution.

Some of the completed and ongoing works are already visible on roads such as Charismatic Road, Old Sapele Road, and Ogheghe Road, where improved access has begun to support local businesses and mobility.

The Edo State House of Assembly has approved N100 billion for the infrastructure programme, which the government says is aimed at delivering lasting improvements and boosting economic activity across the state.