By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commissioned a five-kilometre network of internal roads at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, describing the project as a strategic investment in education, campus mobility and regional development.
The road project, facilitated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), comprises 4.8 kilometres of asphalt pavement, including 4.595 kilometres of internal roads, a 205-metre dual carriageway at the main entrance, reinforced concrete drains and a 32-metre by 900mm reinforced concrete culvert.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Okpebholo commended the NDDC for the intervention, noting that the infrastructure would significantly enhance safety and campus life.
“I am honoured to witness this network of internal roads constructed by the Niger Delta Development Commission here at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen. This project is more than asphalt and concrete; it is access, connectivity, safety and opportunity for thousands of students and staff who use this campus daily,” the governor said.
He emphasized that quality infrastructure within educational institutions is critical to academic excellence and security.
“Road infrastructure within schools is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Good roads enhance security, improve mobility, support learning activities and create an environment where excellence can thrive. By investing in this polytechnic, the NDDC is investing directly in the future of our young people and the economic advancement of the Niger Delta,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo also linked the development to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging students to reciprocate the investment with discipline and focus.
“Let this development remind you that the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is working. You must in turn match this investment with discipline, focus and excellence,” he stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strategic partnerships, the governor said Edo State would continue to collaborate with federal agencies and development partners to deliver projects that improve lives and accelerate growth across communities.
Minister of Regional Development, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh, praised the collaboration between the state government and the NDDC. He recalled his involvement in the legislation that established the institution 23 years ago under former Governor Lucky Igbinedion, noting that the commissioning of major road infrastructure underscored the power of sustained partnership.
Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, highlighted the state government’s support for capacity building and scholarships. According to him, seven lecturers have been sponsored to China for skill enhancement, while five students are studying abroad under state sponsorship. He added that no student has been sent home over school fees, lecturer arrears dating back to 2022 have been cleared, and plans are underway to send students on full scholarship to Turkey.
Providing technical insight into the project, NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, urged the institution and host community to maintain the infrastructure to ensure its long-term benefits.
In his goodwill message, Board Chairman of the polytechnic, Hon. Sam Oboh, said the institution once had a student population of over 10,000, which had declined to about 3,000 in recent years. He expressed optimism that the renewed infrastructural development would restore confidence in the institution, attract more admissions and gradually increase student enrolment once again.
The event also featured Governor Okpebholo’s pledge to donate two new buses to the institution to ease transportation challenges. He further directed that student hostel accommodations be evaluated with a view to improving living standards on campus.
