Excitement is mounting in Benin City as traders, motorists, and residents near the Ikpoba Hill and Ramat Park areas celebrate the construction of the Ikpoba Hill Flyover, the first of its kind in Edo.
The project, being executed under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, is already being hailed as a game-changer for traffic management, economic growth and urban renewal in the state capital.
Residents who spoke with journalists described the flyover as a long-awaited solution to years of gridlock and commercial losses caused by persistent traffic congestion in the area.
Mr. Lawrence Agwanhima said the project would not only ease movement but also transform the visual appeal of the neighbourhood. According to him, economic activities had previously suffered due to poor traffic flow.
“This flyover will improve the economy of this environment and also add beauty to the area. Movement here was very difficult before now. This is a good project, and the governor should be encouraged to continue the good work,” he said.
He dismissed concerns about hoodlums occupying spaces beneath the bridge, noting that such issues predated the project and should not be used as an excuse to halt development.
For traders like Mrs. Ese Juliet, the flyover offers hope of relief from the heavy traffic that characterizes the Ikpoba Hill axis, especially during market days.
“There is always traffic here, particularly on market days. We thank God that this bridge will reduce it. My advice is that the government should complete it on time and expand the road so that traffic does not return,” she said.
At Ramat Park, Master David Okhaishebor, a fresh chicken seller and student of Army Day School, described the flyover as an innovative intervention that would boost business activities and improve mobility.
“The flyover is good. We thank the governor for the innovation. Hold-up will reduce, and vehicles will move smoothly. It will be better if the bridge is fenced so that people don’t sleep under it and mess up the place,” he noted.
Veteran pharmacist Mr. Chijioke Akaru, who has operated at Ramat Park for over three decades, said the project would have lasting economic benefits for Edo State.
“This flyover will improve the economy of the state and reduce go-slow at Ikpoba Hill. I have been here for more than 30 years, and I know how traffic has affected businesses in this area,” he said.
The Ikpoba Hill Flyover stands as a flagship infrastructure initiative of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration, aimed at easing congestion, stimulating commerce and enhancing the overall outlook of Benin City.
As construction progresses, residents remain hopeful that the timely completion of the flyover will boost mobility and promote sustainable development throughout Edo State.
