BENIN CITY — The 125-kilometre Benin–Asaba road will be constructed to global standards under a 25-year concession agreement, the Benin-Asaba Express Concession Company (BAECC) has said.
The Chief Executive Officer of BAECC, Mr. Edafe Shingle, disclosed this at a press conference in Benin City on Wednesday, adding that the project is expected to be completed within three years.
He said the concession covers the construction of four tolls and two plazas under the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) model.
Shingle explained that the company had so far carried out palliative works on the road in line with the directive of the Federal Government to make it motorable while full-scale construction continues.
He noted that one lane of the expressway has been opened to ease traffic flow, adding that the company has engaged the Edo State Traffic Management Agency, security operatives, and the military to assist with traffic control.
According to him, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Edo State Government, is currently enumerating infrastructure along the right of way, while verification of title documents will be handled by the Federal Ministry of Works and the state thereafter
He assured that historical and federal structures, including the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, would be preserved under the project plan.
The road, he added, will be equipped with modern facilities and maintained by the concessionaire throughout the concession period.
The Community Liaison Officer of BAECC, Engr. Jude Odogu, commended host communities for their cooperation and support for the project.