Benin City is witnessing one of its most ambitious infrastructure undertakings in recent memory. The Ramat Park Flyover, Edo State’s first flyover bridge, is now well past its halfway mark—and residents are beginning to glimpse the promise of smoother commutes, less congestion, and better infrastructure that lives up to the city’s status.

Origins: A Promise Made, A Vision Flagged Off

• Flag-off and Purpose: Flagged off in November 2024, the Ramat Park Flyover was one of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first major projects shortly after taking office. Its aim: to ease the chronic traffic gridlock that plagues the Ramat Park / Benin-Auchi Expressway / Benin-Asaba Expressway corridors.

• Scope and Ambition: Aside from improving motorist flow, the flyover is meant to transform Benin City’s entrance as a gateway, reinforcing its economic, social, and logistic importance. Governor Okpebholo also announced that two additional flyovers will follow—one at Dawson Road junction, and another at Sapele Road/Adesuwa Road junction.

How Much Has Been Done So Far

• Progress: As of late September 2025, the flyover is about 60% complete.

• Earier Milestones: Back in March, the project had reached around 20% completion. By then, the contractor had finished building seven pillars, installing underground cross-beams, and other foundational work.

• Contractor & Timeline: The build is being handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). Originally scheduled for 18 months, the delivery target has been revised: the government now expects 14 months for completion—i.e. around April 2026, instead of August.

• Current works under way: One abutment has been completed; beams have been launched on one side. Retaining walls, access drains and side drains are being constructed, while pavement and final finishing are set to follow once the rainy season subsides.

Government Oversight & Quality Assurance

• Inspections & Monitoring: The Okpebholo administration has been making frequent site visits. Governor Okpebholo and his technical team, including the Special Adviser on Project Monitoring & Evaluation (Engr. Phoebe Bello-Williams), have scrutinised the work to ensure compliance with specifications.

• Warnings to Contractors: The governor has made it clear that contractors who underperform—either in speed or quality—risk contract cancellation.

• Public Reassurance Against Rumours: At one point, rumours circulated that portions of the flyover had collapsed. These have been firmly denied by the site engineer, who reassured the public that work is solid, ongoing, and safe.

What This Means for Benin City

• Traffic Decongestion: Once operational, the flyover will significantly reduce bottlenecks on major expressway entrances. The Ramat Park area often sees heavy gridlock, especially at key hours. The 3-lane design (including shoulders) promises greater capacity.

• Urban Mobility & Commerce: For traders, commuters, and transport operators, delays translate to lost time and cost. This infrastructure will not only improve quality of life, but also economic efficiency.

• Symbolic Value: Beyond function, the flyover is symbolic—of a new administration’s resolve, visible change, and the fulfillment of promises. The government frames this project under the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” and residents are increasingly keen to see that hope manifested.

Challenges Ahead and What Residents Should Watch

• Weather & Construction Timing: The rainy season poses inevitable disruptions. Some finishing works like pavement and side drains depend heavily on dry conditions.

• Maintaining Momentum: With high expectations comes pressure. Consistency in oversight, timely payment to contractors (to avoid delays), and avoiding cost escalations will be crucial.

• Public Safety and Access: Ensuring that pedestrians, motorists, local businesses are informed and protected during construction is important. Also, access drains, side structures must be properly integrated to avoid later flooding or erosion.

• Post-Completion Maintenance: Once the flyover is done, maintenance (structural, surface, lighting, drainage) must be planned for. An infrastructure asset is only as good as its upkeep.

Voices from the Ground

While official statements dominate the record, there’s palpable enthusiasm among many Edo residents:

“We see the pillars rising, we see the beams taking shape. Traffic is bad now, but we look forward to relief.” — commuter along Benin-Auchi Expressway (unofficial / paraphrased)

“Finally, a visible project in place. We just hope the contractor delivers, and there’s no cutting corners.” — trader at Ramat Park Market

Meanwhile, in government circles:

Governor Okpebholo: “This flyover reflects our commitment to deploying public funds prudently and effectively… we will continue to support the contractors and ensure quality delivery at record time.”

Engr. Phoebe Bello-Williams: Confirmed the revised delivery timeframe, ongoing works, and noted that pavement works will commence after the rainy season.

Conclusion

The Ramat Park Flyover encompasses more than just concrete and steel—it embodies a turning point for Benin City. Already 60% complete and marching toward its April 2026 target, it offers visible proof that infrastructure-led development is moving from promise to practice in Edo State.

If the administration retains its focus—on high standards, accountability, and community engagement—this project could not only alleviate daily travel pains but also set a new benchmark for what residents expect of governance.

For now, motorists, traders, commuters and all Edo people have reason to watch with anticipation—and perhaps even pride—as the flyover rises.