OKPEBHOLO'S OKPAGHA –AMUFI ROAD RECONSTRUCTION REVIVES ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN BENIN CITY
Residents and business owners along the Okpagha–Amufi axis in Benin City have expressed renewed optimism following the reconstruction of the long-neglected road network by the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
The 8.6-kilometre road network, which cuts across seven communities and connects about 10 adjoining streets, stretches from the Agbor Park axis to the Benin–Auchi Road Bypass, providing residents and motorists with a more direct and accessible route within the area.
The reconstruction has significantly improved connectivity, reduced travel time and eased transportation challenges for residents. Communities around Agbor Park can now access the Auchi Road corridor more directly without having to pass through Ramat Park, providing a major boost to mobility and commercial activities.
For residents who endured years of deteriorating infrastructure, the intervention represents far more than the reconstruction of a road. It has restored confidence, improved access to homes and businesses, and revitalised social and economic activities in communities that had suffered prolonged infrastructural neglect.
The economic impact of the project is already becoming visible, as residents report the opening of new businesses and the reopening of shops that had previously closed due to the poor condition of the road. Residents also say improved accessibility has enhanced the attractiveness and value of properties within the area.
One resident recounted that a plot of land purchased in the area for about ₦150,000 two years ago is now reportedly valued at approximately ₦4.5 million, which she attributed to the renewed economic prospects created by the improved infrastructure.
Residents who spoke on the project commended Governor Okpebholo for what they described as a practical intervention that has restored hope to the affected communities. They also acknowledged the importance of cooperation between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government in driving development and expressed support for the administration's development agenda.
Mrs. Azubuike, a resident of the area, recalled that the road was previously almost impassable due to severe erosion, potholes and muddy conditions, making movement to homes and businesses extremely difficult. She expressed appreciation for the reconstruction, noting that the improved road has eliminated many of the daily hardships previously experienced by residents.
Similarly, Pa Gabriel Erabor, a landlord who has lived in the area for more than 20 years, commended Governor Okpebholo for addressing what he described as a longstanding infrastructure challenge. He said the project demonstrated the administration's commitment to fulfilling its promises and expressed confidence in the Governor's development agenda.
The Okpagha–Amufi Road project cuts across Okpagha, Amufi, Iyanomo, Iguomon, Eyaen, Ighekpe and Ohovbe communities in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area. Once regarded by residents as one of the major infrastructure challenges around the Agbor Road axis, the road is now emerging as a catalyst for renewed economic and social activities.
With improved accessibility, returning property owners, growing commercial activities and enhanced connectivity, residents say the project has brought a new sense of normalcy and renewed hope to communities that had endured years of infrastructural neglect.
The Edo State Government remains committed to delivering people-oriented infrastructure that improves the quality of life of citizens, strengthens local economies and creates an enabling environment for businesses and communities to thrive.
Signed:
Hon. Haruna Braimoh
Special Adviser on Public Affairs and Media to the Edo State Governor