Nigeria has entered a new era of infrastructure development as the Federal Government, in partnership with Africa Plus Partners, officially flagged off the 125km Benin–Asaba Expressway, the nation’s first fully private-sector-financed superhighway.
At the groundbreaking ceremony in Benin City, Governor Monday Okpebholo, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hailed the project as a landmark achievement in public-private partnerships (PPP).
“This is a legacy project. Private investors committing funds to this proves confidence in our economy and the President’s vision,” Okpebholo stated.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement explained that unlike past projects relying on federal allocations, this expressway is 100% privately funded, setting a precedent for self-sustaining infrastructure.
Minister of Finance Wale Edun emphasized: “This project is not reliant on government funding—the cash is there. Investors have provided full capital under President Tinubu’s policies.”
Minister of Works David Umahi described it as a “cashless model”, demonstrating how strategic financing can fast-track development.
Designed as a dual-carriage, solar-lit superhighway, the project is expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade, and drive economic growth.
“This is just the beginning,” Edun assured. “We will roll out more projects using financial frameworks that ensure transparency, efficiency, and speed.”
With the Benin–Asaba Expressway, Nigeria is proving that world-class infrastructure is possible—faster, smarter, and without government financial strain.