Benin-Agbor-Asaba highway reconstruction progresses as planned – BAECC

BENIN CITY – Reconstruction work on the Benin-Agbor-Asaba Expressway remains fully on course, despite concerns raised in some quarters over localized flooding along sections of the project corridor.

The Management of the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company (BAECC), the contracting firm handling the project gave the assure in a statement issued on Thursday, reaffirming its commitment to delivering the landmark highway project on scheduled and in line with the highest engineering standards.

BAECC however acknowledged concerns expressed by residents, business owners and motorists, particularly within the Amufi/Iguomo axis in Benin city on the Benin-Agbor highway, where temporary flooding has been reported as a result of ongoing construction activities.

“We acknowledge the concerns raised by residents, business owners and motorists in the affected areas and sincerely empathize with those experiencing temporary inconveniences. Our team is actively working to minimize disruptions while ensuring that critical construction activities are completed to the required standards,” the statement said.

The concession company dismissed speculations in some quarters that work on the highway had been suspended or abandoned, stressing that construction activities are ongoing across multiple sections of the 145-kilometre corridor.

“We wish to categorically state that construction work on the Benin-Agbor- Asaba highway has neither been suspended nor abandoned. Activities remain ongoing across several sections of the project, with multiple teams deployed to ensure steady progress and timely delivery,” BAECC stated.

Providing an update on ongoing works in the affected locations, the company explained that contractors are currently focused on expanding and strengthening drainage infrastructure to address flooding challenges and improve the long-term resilience of the highway.

“Current works in the affected areas include the extension, reinforcement and completion of critical drainage infrastructure designed to effectively channel stormwater into designated discharge points and nearby natural water bodies. These drainage systems are essential for long-term flood control and the overall resilience of the road corridor,” the company explained.

The company appealed for continued understanding and cooperation from residents and road users, assuring them that every effort is being made to balance construction activities with public convenience and safety.

“Our objective is to ensure that affected communities experience lasting relief while the highway is delivered to world-class standards,” the company said.

The Benin-Agbor-Asaba Expressway reconstruction project, which spans approximately 145-kilometre from the Kings Square axis of Benin City in Edo State to the Summit Road Junction in Asaba, Delta State, was officially flagged off by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, in March 2025.