The Traffic

Tinubu Flags Off 125km Benin-Asaba Highway Without Spending a Kobo

By Achimi Muktar  

In a bold infrastructural move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the construction of the highly anticipated 125-kilometer Benin-Asaba Highway—a project set to reshape the economic landscape of Edo and Delta States.  

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Sunday, was officiated by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who represented the President. With a completion timeline of 30 months, the highway is expected to ease transportation, boost commerce, and enhance connectivity between the two states.  

Describing the road as a "legacy project," Tinubu emphasized that Edo State was rapidly transforming into an infrastructure hub, akin to Lagos.  

However, the most intriguing aspect of this project is its funding model. According to Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, the road will be constructed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring seamless execution without direct government expenditure.  

“This construction is like a cashless program. We will not see the money, but the work will keep going on. There will be no begging for funds or disputes over payments. The focus will be on the project itself, and the credit will always go to Mr. President,” Umahi stated.  

The Minister further highlighted that the Benin-Asaba Highway is just one of several road projects being spearheaded by Tinubu across the country. “The President is working on multiple road sections nationwide, ensuring Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy. In addition, there are 20 other projects between Delta and Edo States alone,” he revealed.  

Spanning 125 kilometers in both directions, making a total of 250 kilometers, the highway will feature solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and sustainability.  

With the Federal Government leveraging private sector investments to execute such massive projects, this initiative signals a new era in Nigeria’s infrastructure development—one where strategic partnerships drive progress without burdening the national budget.  

As construction kicks off, all eyes are on this game-changing project, which promises to redefine travel and commerce in the South-South region.