Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has flagged off the construction of the first flyover bridge in the state.
The first flyover in the state is being constructed at Ramat Park, Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Okpebholo, who flagged off the project on Tuesday in Benin City, said it was part of his administration’s immediate efforts to reduce traffic congestion in the city.
The governor, who was sworn-in November 12, 2024, disclosed that his administration would also construct two more flyover bridges in Benin City.
He said the flyover bridges would be constructed at Dawson Road junction, and Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road junction, all in Benin City.
He opined that the completion of Ramat Park Flyover would transform the economy and social fortunes of the capital city and the entire Edo State at large.
“Ramat Park is a gateway to Benin City and other parts of the country. The construction of the bridge will provide a new lease of life for motorists in Benin City and commuters along the two corridors of the Benin-Auchi Expressway and Benin-Asaba Expressway.
“We have gathered to witness the beginning of a very important project that will transform the economy and social fortunes of our capital city and indeed Edo State. Ramat Park is a gateway to Benin city and other parts of the country.
“Therefore, Ramat Park Flyover will provide a new lease of life for motorists in Benin City and communities along these two corridors – the Benin-Auchi Expressway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway.
“During our campaigns a few months ago, I specifically promised to construct fly@overs to ease transportation and reduce the traffic gridlock in our city. Today, one week into my administration, we are here to fulfil that promise and deliver the dividends of democracy.
“This is the first flyover we are constructing and we are going to construct more. There will be one by Dawson Road junction and another one by Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road junction.
“Benin City was the first capital city of Africa when Europeans first came to the continent in the 14th century. So, we must give the city a befitting facelift to also encourage the development of tourism.
“Let me use this opportunity to appreciate the Speaker and other honourable members of the House of Assembly for their cooperation. To the contractor, CCECC Nigeria Limited, we look forward to seeing you work day and night to meet the 18-month completion period,” the governor said.
Okpebholo assured the people of the state that his government would abide by all relevant laws in the execution of the project and others to come.
He also appealed to motorists to bear with the government and make some sacrifices by being patient with the contractors throughout the next 18 months.
