FG, in partnership with APP, flag off 125km Benin-Asaba expressway repairs
{FILES] Umahi
FG, in partnership with APP, flag off 125km Benin-Asaba expressway repairs.
Following the huge number of dilapidated federal highways across the South-South, the Federal Government has flagged off the 125km Benin-Asaba Highway, expected to be completed within 30 months.
The project, which the Federal Government will be executing, in line with its Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), is in collaboration with Africa Plus Partners (APP), an Infrastructure Development Financier.
The Federal Ministry of Works officially flagged off the Benin-Asaba Expressway re-development project, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s HDMI.
The 125-kilometre corridor part of HDMI Phase 1 is a crucial component of the Federal Government’s highways programme geared towards ensuring the sustainable development, maintenance and world-class management of vital road infrastructure.
Speaking at the weekend during the official handing over ceremony of the road re-development to APP, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, underscored the Federal Government’s vision for modernising infrastructure, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
He said: “President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering a robust and interconnected infrastructure that promotes ease of movement, strengthens the economy and ensures a self-sustaining transport network that supports growth for generations to come.
“The Benin-Asaba highway is a crucial link between the Southern and Northern regions, vital for trade and other economic activities. The highway is an essential part of the nation’s economic backbone and has long needed urgent rehabilitation and upgrade.
On his part, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, who was also representing Tinubu, praised the private sector-led financing structure.
He said: “This is a legacy project. For private investors to risk their capital, it shows strong belief in the President’s vision and the future of our economy.”
Applauding the HDMI structure, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, described the project as a milestone in infrastructure financing.
His words: “What you see on the front page of the event brochure will be delivered, because the cash is there.”
“This project is not reliant on direct federal funding. Africa Plus Consortium, backed by credible investors, has put forward the full capital commitment under the enabling policies of President Bola Tinubu. This is just one of many projects that will be delivered week after week, month after month, through sustainable financial frameworks that ensure transparency, efficiency, and speed.”
Speaking for the new project owners, the Chairman of Africa Plus Partners, Anhad Narula, highlighted the company’s focus on delivering infrastructure that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.
