Benin-iruekpen Road Now Takes Just 45 Minutes – Gov Okpebholo

Benin City – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced that recent upgrades to the Benin-Iruekpen section of a federal road have drastically reduced travel time along the route to just 45 minutes.

Following his personal trip along the road, Governor Okpebholo expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that the rehabilitation has greatly eased the journey for road users.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor described the formerly difficult and time-consuming journey between Benin City and Iruekpen in Esan West Local Government Area as now significantly improved.

"Until recently, it could take days to reach Iruekpen via this route. Now, the journey takes only 45 minutes, thanks to the smooth and accessible road," he said.

Okpebholo credited the advancement to Edo State's alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said is delivering visible infrastructural benefits in the state.

"Edo is witnessing substantial infrastructural growth because we are actively supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda. President Tinubu’s commitment to Edo people is clear through the democratic dividends we are receiving via effective governance," he noted.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to delivering impactful projects, the governor said, “We are focused on results—initiatives that citizens can directly experience. This road upgrade is just one example of how we are enhancing lives through improved infrastructure.”

Governor Okpebholo also thanked Edo residents for their continued support, assuring them that more development projects are in the pipeline across the state’s three senatorial zones.

“My motivation comes from the people. They are the reason I serve, and I remain devoted to their well-being. From day one, I have been clear about my mission—to prioritize the people and deliver real change,” he stated.

Speaking on the impact of the project, Engr. Bajwa Mohd, a representative of the construction firm managing the work, confirmed that travel between Benin and Ekpoma has significantly improved.

“The road is now much smoother, and journey times have greatly reduced. Commuters are having a far better travel experience,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo’s administration continues to place a strong emphasis on infrastructure, with the success of the Benin/Ekpoma/Auchi road project highlighting his government’s dedication to development. Road users across Edo State can now look forward to safer, faster, and more convenient travel.