Advancing HDMI: Africa Plus Partners Flags Off 125km Benin-Asaba Expressway

In what will be described as an advancement of the nation’s Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), Africa Plus Partners (APP), an Infrastructure Development Financier has in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works officially flagged off the Benin-Asaba Expressway re-development project, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).

The 125-kilometre corridor part of HDMI Phase 1, is a crucial component of the Federal Government’s highways programme geared towards ensuring the sustainable development, maintenance and world-class management of vital roads infrastructure.

Speaking at the weekend during the official handing over ceremony of the road redevelopment to APP, the Minister of Works, Sen. Davd Umahi underscored the Federal Government’s vision for modernizing infrastructure and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

His words, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering a robust and interconnected infrastructure that promotes ease of movement, strengthens the economy and ensures a self-sustaining transport network that supports growth for generations to come”.

“The Benin-Asaba highway is a crucial link between the Southern and Northern regions, vital for trade and other economic activities. The highway is an essential part of the nation’s economic backbone and has long been in need of urgent rehabilitation and upgrade.

On his part, the host governor, governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo who was also representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praised the private sector-led financing structure.

According to Okpebholo, “This is a legacy project. For private investors to risk their capital, it shows strong belief in the president’s vision and the future of our economy”.

Applauding the HDMI structure, the minister of finance and coordinating minister for the economy, Wale Edun, described the project as a milestone in infrastructure financing.

His words, “What you see on the front page of the event brochure will be delivered—because the cash is there.”This project is not reliant on direct federal funding. Africa Plus Consortium, backed by credible investors, has put forward the full capital commitment under the enabling policies of President Bola Tinubu. This is just one of many projects that will be delivered week after week, month after month, through sustainable financial frameworks that ensure transparency, efficiency, and speed.”

Speaking for the new project owners, chairman, Africa Plus Partners, Anhad Narula, highlighted the company’s focus on delivering infrastructure that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

“A road like this should do more than connect cities—it should create value. With solar powered streetlights and CNG-powered facilities, we’re ensuring 24/7 reliability while lowering emissions. It’s about building infrastructure that lasts, serves communities, and pays for itself over time,” Narula stated.

On his part, Adeniran Ajakaiye, CEO, Africa Plus Partners, expressed appreciation for the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, for their role in making the HDMI programme a reality.

“This highway is a blueprint for how Nigeria should build roads—efficiently, sustainably, and with long-term capital. With strong local engagement and private sector discipline, we will ensure that we deliver transformative impact”.