Okpebholo: Edo Govt Not Obtaining N100bn Loan But Credit Facility for Contractors

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Government on Thursday said it is not obtaining N100 billion loan but sought a credit facility for contractors handling various projects in the state.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Mr. Fred Itua and made available to journalists in Benin City, noted the state government is strategically positioned as a guarantor for contractors handling critical infrastructural projects across the state which guarantee them secure the necessary funding for project execution from First Bank Plc.

The statement added the clarification is crucial to correct any misconception arising from reports suggesting the governor had directly obtained an approval to borrow the aforementioned sum.

The statement read in part: “The arrangement is specifically a contractor loan facility designed to empower nominated contractors with direct access to capital for their projects, with the State’s guarantee underpinning the financial transaction.

“This innovative approach is a deliberate move by Governor Okpebholo’s administration to accelerate the development of key infrastructure across Edo State. The funds, which will be disbursed by First Bank Plc directly to the contractors based on their project demands, have a tenure of 40 months.

“The Edo State Government is fully committed to fulfilling its guarantee obligations by ensuring timely payments to the bank as agreed, thereby guaranteeing the seamless and expeditious execution of these vital projects.

“Among the priority projects earmarked for execution under this funding mechanism are: Construction of a flyover bridge at Adesuwa Road; Construction of Evbhukhu-Sapele Road with surface and underground drainage system in Oredo LGA; Construction of Eguaolor-Iguomo-Uvbenisi-Oza Road with Spur to Ohe community in Uhunwonde LGA; and Construction of Okpagha-Amufi Road with Spur to AG Bonze Street, Daddy J Road, and Michael Agbedon Street in Uhunwonde/Ikpoba Okha LGA.

“Others include construction of inter roads in Ogbeghe and Old Sapele Road, including associated hydrology structure in Benin City; Construction of Uhie Road off Sapele Road, Benin City; Construction of internal roads in Ugieda village, South Ibie, Etsako West LGA; Construction of a single carriage way of Ekpoma-Uromi-Ubiaja road in Esan, among others.

“This pragmatic and fiscally responsible model underscores Governor Okpebholo’s strong commitment to delivering on his mandate for infrastructural development, ensuring that contractors are well-resourced to complete projects efficiently, and ultimately improving the lives of Edo citizens.”