Governor Monday Okpebholo has unveiled plans to transform Ramat Park in Benin City into a major tourist attraction, as part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades across Edo South Senatorial District.

The governor disclosed this on Monday while inspecting the Ikpoba Hill flyover and erosion control works at Ramat Park, as well as the Sapele Road project linking Okhatu, Etiosa, Iyanomo and Obaretin communities.

Speaking with journalists at Ramat Park, Okpebholo said the redevelopment would extend beyond traffic decongestion to reposition the area as a modern leisure and tourism centre.

“By the time we are done with this place, this place will look like Dubai,” the governor said, commending the pace and commitment of the contractors handling the project.

He stressed that his administration is determined to deliberately develop the park into a relaxation and tourism hub.

“We are not stopping at the flyover. We are going to build a park here so that this place will be useful. People will come here to relax. A lot of things will be happening here. After this, we are proposing building a structure that will make this place a tourist attraction. That is what Edo should be known for, not cultism or people coming to create crisis here,” he stated.

According to him, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to redefine Edo State’s image, promote recreation and stimulate economic activities within the capital city.

Providing an update on the project, Mr. Lee, who represented the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), assured that work is progressing on schedule and nearing completion.

“Maybe it will remain small work by May. I can say we can finish all the work by May,” he said.

At the Sapele Road project site, the governor described the reconstruction as practical evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“You see what is happening here? This is the demonstration of Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerians,” Okpebholo said, noting that the road, once notorious for gridlock, is now undergoing rapid transformation.

He added that within one year and three months in office, his administration has recorded notable milestones, attributing the progress to federal support and cooperation from Edo residents.

“Before now, you couldn’t pass this road. It took us hours just to move half a kilometre. We would not have done this without the support from Mr President. I want to thank him, and I also thank Edo people for cooperating with us. Let me also thank the contractors because they are working day and night,” he said.

The governor reiterated that while road infrastructure remains a key priority, the transformation of Ramat Park into a tourist destination will serve as a signature project aimed at boosting leisure, commerce and the aesthetic appeal of Benin City.

The press release was signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State.