FG Criticizes BAECC Over Benin-Asaba Road Condition

The Federal Government has attributed the deteriorating condition of the Benin-Asaba Expressway to the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company (BAECC) and is contemplating a review of the concession agreement. During an assessment of the highway in Benin, Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, expressed dissatisfaction with BAECC's management, citing a lack of technical competence.

He criticized the concessionaire for removing existing asphalt without constructing necessary drainage infrastructure, which the government had previously warned against. Umahi described this action as destruction of public property and instructed ministry controllers to arrest any contractor or concessionaire who removes asphalt without approval.

He apologized to Nigerians for the hardships caused by the highway's condition and emphasized the need for government intervention. BAECC's CEO, Samuel Daramola, cited heavy rainfall and traffic as reasons for the slow progress.

The highway, concessioned to BAECC in 2025 for conversion into a 10-lane highway, has faced significant complaints from motorists. The government is also considering redesigning other major roads in Edo State for reconstruction.