Traders, business owners, transporters, and residents along the Sapele Road axis in Benin City have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for the long-awaited reconstruction of the Benin–Sapele Road.
Many described the intervention as a major relief after years of hardship caused by the deplorable condition of the road, which they said negatively affected daily life, slowed commercial activities, and discouraged customers from accessing the area.
A transporter, Mr Amadi Great, expressed deep appreciation for the project.
“My brother, I can’t really appreciate the governor enough except to say God bless him. This place where I am standing now was completely inaccessible before. Even when former Governor Obaseki visited, his vehicle got stuck here, and he said it was a federal road. Thank God Governor Okpebholo has finally done it for us.”
A second-hand clothing trader, Mrs Romary Obazee, said the impact of the repairs is already evident.
“We are very happy now. Before, the road was terrible and customers found it difficult to come here. Today, vehicles move freely, and transporting goods is no longer a problem. Our sales have improved,” she said, while urging the government to ensure that contractors complete the remaining sections promptly, especially with the rainy season approaching.
Also speaking, a battery and car accessories dealer, Mr Richard Erahbor, recalled how the area was often cut off during rainfall.
“This place used to be flooded and impassable whenever it rained. Now the road is good and motorable. We can truly say this government has kept its promise. Business is better because people can now move freely.”
A vulcaniser, Mr Osaro Nosa, added that the improved road conditions have restored customer confidence and boosted daily earnings for traders operating along the axis.
Residents further applauded the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and Governor Okpebholo for personally inspecting the project to ensure quality execution and prudent use of public funds.
While several failed sections of the road have already been repaired, reconstruction work continues on other portions. From Ring Road through Sapele Road to the bypass, the improved roadway has eased traffic congestion, revived business activities, and restored hope to residents and traders along the corridor.
Signed:
Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Edo State