Benin-Asaba Expressway: Niger Delta youth group lauds Umahi, seeks urgent action
The Niger Delta Youth Network (NDYN) has commended the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, for his swift response to concerns over the Benin-Asaba Road.
In a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, NDYN National President, Scott Ogunseri, applauded Umahi for personally inspecting the road rather than relying solely on reports.
Ogunseri noted that the minister’s decision to witness firsthand challenges confronting motorists, acknowledge their concerns and engage stakeholders, demonstrated leadership, responsiveness and commitment to finding lasting solutions.
“For thousands of Nigerians travelling the critical corridor daily, the Minister’s action represents renewed hope that something concrete can finally address longstanding hardship confronting motorists,” he said.
He added that NDYN recognised the minister’s doggedness, sagacity and responsibility in confronting the situation directly, saying that his willingness to listen to road users remained highly commendable.
He prayed that the intervention must not end with a meeting, and urged the stakeholders to translate discussions into immediate and sustainable action.
Ogunseri called on the Federal Government, Ministry of Works, NDDC, NNPC, contractors and stakeholders to cooperate fully with the minister’s initiative at ensuring that the roads were fixed.
He said that the Benin–Asaba road was not merely a project, but a critical economic artery connecting Nigeria’s South-South and South-East regions.
“The road’s poor condition continues to undermine transportation, commerce, security and livelihoods, with millions of Nigerians across the South-South and South-East regions being mostly affected,” he said.
Ogunseri urged NNPC and other institutions connected to the project to respond positively to Umahi’s intervention and address every outstanding responsibility without delay.
“Our position remains clear: we are not looking for blame; we are looking for results,” he said.
The NDYN president while commending Umahi for listening, acting and taking responsibility, encouraged him to maintain momentum until Nigerians could travel the road safely again.
“The Minister has renewed our hope. Now, every stakeholder must renew commitment to delivering the Benin-Asaba road for Nigerians,” he said.
Ogunseri pledged the readiness of the group to support genuine efforts towards completing, rehabilitating and delivering the Benin-Asaba road and other critical infrastructure across Niger Delta.
He urged stakeholders to connect efforts, empower communities and transform infrastructure delivery, saying that renewed commitment remains essential for completing critical projects
NY/CEO