The Federal Government, in partnership with Africa Plus Partners, has officially launched the construction of the 125km Benin-Asaba Expressway in Edo State.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, performed the groundbreaking ceremony, praising the project’s innovative financing model. “This is a legacy project. For private investors to put their money into it, it shows confidence in our economy,” he said.
Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, assured that the project has secured full financial backing from the private sector, eliminating reliance on government funding. “This is not just a plan on paper; the cash is available. Investors believe in Tinubu’s policies, and this road will be completed on schedule,” Edun stated.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the project as a “cashless model” for infrastructure development, emphasizing that private-sector-led funding will become more common in future road projects.
The event was attended by top dignitaries, including Delta State Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and Edo Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa.
Calls were made for the project’s extension beyond Asaba to the Niger Bridge, and Umahi assured that 30% of the mobilization funds had already been disbursed.
