The Edo State Government has proposed alternative sources of energy, a new airport and rail lines in the new Benin City and Edo regional development masterplans.
In his address at the unveiling of the two masterplans on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, in Benin, Gov. Godwin Obaseki said the alternative energy would be sourced from renewables such as solar and hydro.
The governor said the new airport was being proposed to be located in Auchi.
He also said new cities such as the Coral City would be developed in Benin City, Auchi and Ekpoma.
Obaseki explained that the two masterplans were designed by the state government in partnership with Siraj Nigeria Limited under the Supervision of the state Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing Urban and Regional Development.
“The master plans are living documents and subject to review every five years.
“They will be infused into the primary and secondary schools’ curriculums,” he said.
Earlier, Ms Isoken Omo, the Commissioner for Physical Planning, Housing Urban and Regional Development, said a total of 22,000 properties were visited during the planning exercise while 27 consultations were held with various stakeholders.
Omo, who noted that the reviewing of the existing masterplans was participatory, noted that it would encourage local governments to focus on areas of their comparative advantage for development.
According to her, the Edo Regional Development and Benin City Masterplans cover all the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
“The success of the masterplans is dependent on the collective efforts of indigenes and residents of Edo State.
“The masterplans will determine the location of public infrastructure, such as roads, schools, hospitals, water and power.
“It will promote innovation and entrepreneurship by creating a supportive environment for startups and small businesses across the state,” the commissioner said.
By Usman Aliyu
