Edo State Governor Launches Major Road Project in Uhunwonde
The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has officially inaugurated a significant 14-kilometre road project in the Uhunwonde Local Government Area. This new road is designed to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activities among Uhunwonde and nine surrounding communities, including that of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Commitment to Development
During the inauguration ceremony, Governor Okpebholo expressed his appreciation to the community elders and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering on its campaign promises. He took the opportunity to highlight the representation of the Uhunwonde community within his cabinet, noting that two out of the nine appointed commissioners—those responsible for justice and energy and water resources—are from the local area.
The governor acknowledged the support he received during his campaign, stating, “I want to thank the elders of this community. We have appointed nine commissioners, out of which this community already has two: the commissioner for justice and the commissioner for energy and water resources.” He emphasized the importance of remembering one’s roots, sharing, “You remember the last time I came here to campaign, I told you to vote for me. You voted for your son before, and he did not remember you. If I have a son who will not remember me, I will not pray for him.”
A Promise Fulfilled
Governor Okpebholo reflected on the community’s prayers and the women’s persistent requests for the road’s construction during his campaign. He stated, “I promised that I was coming back to do the road when I win the election. It is about seven months into our administration now. We are here to officially flag off the road. Have we not started? This is why, anywhere I go, I can beat my chest to say that a new Edo has risen. We will complete this road by the grace of God.”
He assured residents that this construction project marks the beginning of numerous positive developments planned for the area. The governor also emphasized the high standards of the project, noting the advanced equipment brought in by contractors as a testament to their capacity to execute the work effectively.
A Shift in Development Narrative
Governor Okpebholo contrasted the current state of development in Edo with previous perceptions, stating, “Before now, when the people said, ‘Edo no be Lagos,’ we did not develop. But today, we are developing.” He expressed pride in the progress being made, likening it to the development seen in Lagos, as evidenced by ongoing projects, including a flyover.
The governor pointed out other successful infrastructure initiatives, such as the Temboga Road project in Benin City and the rehabilitated Benin-Ekpoma Road. The latter now allows for a journey that takes just 45 minutes, a drastic improvement from the several hours it previously required. He remarked, “That is the same road that the past government once placed a signboard saying, ‘This is a Federal Road. Bear with us.’”
Community Support and Goodwill Messages
The event also featured goodwill messages from several prominent figures, including Dr. Washington Osifo, the Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources; Iredia Benjamin, the council chairman; and Kaycee Uhunoma Osamwonyi, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. Their support reflects a collective commitment to the ongoing development of the region and the broader objectives of the state government.
In summary, the launch of the road project in Uhunwonde signifies a pivotal step toward enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic growth within the community. Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to fulfilling his promises is evident, and the positive developments in Edo State continue to unfold, aiming to transform the region for the better.
