In a significant move for infrastructural development, the Edo House of Assembly passed two bills during their second reading on Monday that aim to establish the State Road Fund Board (SRFB) and the Edo Rural Access Road Agency (RARA).
The legislative session took place in Benin and focused on funding strategies for the planning, management, construction, and rehabilitation of Class B, C, and D roads across the state.
During the debate, Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian, who represents Ovia North East 1 for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized the importance of Class C and D roads, comparing them to “vital arteries in a body.”
He stated, “The economy cannot improve without these roads,” highlighting the necessity of these routes for enhancing access to rural communities. Aiguobarueghian noted that the bills are part of a World Bank intervention and a national effort to address roads that are not included in the state’s annual budget.
He urged the legislature to expedite the passage of the bills, asserting that improved access would connect government services with rural residents.
Deputy Speaker Maria Edeko, representing Esan North East II for the PDP, reiterated the economic benefits of rural roads, claiming they are crucial for unlocking the nation’s wealth in agriculture, mining, and oil resources.
“If properly constructed and rehabilitated, rural roads would positively impact the state’s economy,” she asserted, suggesting that enhanced infrastructure would promote growth in commerce, transportation, and local industries.
Other lawmakers echoed the need for immediate passage of the bills, with several contributions highlighting their potential to facilitate economic growth throughout communities.
Following the discussions, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku referred the bills to the House Committee on Works for further fine-tuning, with instructions to present a report to the House within a week.
This decision marks a pivotal step toward fortifying the state’s rural infrastructure and fostering economic development in less accessible areas.
