Minister of Works David Umahi has directed the immediate repair of damaged sections of the Benin-Asaba Expressway, following severe deterioration of the road and prolonged traffic gridlock affecting motorists and commuters.
Umahi issued the directive during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Edo State Government House in Benin, where officials and other stakeholders discussed the worsening condition of the major highway.
The expressway has suffered serious structural damage, including deep potholes, failed sections and areas that have been excavated and left difficult or impossible for motorists to use. The situation has resulted in lengthy traffic jams, with some travellers reportedly spending between 15 hours and several days on the road.
The minister expressed concern over what he described as unacceptable failures in the execution and management of the concession agreement covering the reconstruction and expansion of the highway.
He criticised the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company (BAECC), accusing the concessionaire of failing to comply with approved engineering standards and government directives. Umahi also questioned the continued involvement of personnel he considered unqualified in critical aspects of the project.
He stressed that important national infrastructure should not be allowed to deteriorate because of negligence, poor construction practices or failure to follow official instructions.
As part of the immediate intervention, the concessionaire was ordered to restore all damaged asphalt sections and create safe, clearly marked routes for motorists within the affected carriageway.
Umahi also directed that standing water on the road be removed immediately, while dust and other materials obstructing motorists’ visibility and safe movement should be cleared.
The minister said construction activities must be properly managed to ensure that road users are not subjected to unnecessary hardship while work is ongoing.
He further demonstrated the use of DSIP and asphalt reinstatement as practical measures for restoring damaged portions of the highway.
Umahi urged the concessionaire to show greater commitment to completing the project despite challenges associated with the rainy season and the heavy volume of traffic along the corridor.
He also emphasised the need for stronger professional supervision and accountability in the management of major road projects, warning that national infrastructure must be protected from avoidable deterioration.
The intervention comes after mounting complaints from motorists and host communities over the worsening condition of the Benin-Asaba corridor and the severe gridlock it has caused.
The Federal Government has maintained that the objective is not merely to carry out road construction but to ensure that major projects are executed according to approved engineering standards and provide value for public funds.
