The Edo State Government is in the final stages of passing a bill to establish the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a strategic initiative aimed at improving rural road connectivity and enhancing access to agricultural markets across the state.

This was disclosed during a one-day stakeholders’ consultation meeting held in Benin City, organized by the Edo State Government in collaboration with the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) and other development partners.

Speaking at the event, Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Felix Akhabue, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and inclusive rural development.

“We are committed to continuing meaningful road projects across rural communities in Edo State. 

This reform is people-driven and built on government–private partnership that ensures participatory budgeting. It is aimed at closing the gap between urban and rural areas,” Akhabue said.

The consultation focused on two key components of the reform, the creation of a State Road Fund (SRF) and a Rural Access Road Agency (RARA), both designed to institutionalize road maintenance and enhance access for agricultural activities.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, emphasized the importance of RAAMP in tackling post-harvest losses and supporting rural livelihoods.

Representing the National Coordinator of RAAMP, Aminu Mohammed, Irabor Ehizojie said the project would provide lasting solutions to infrastructure deficits in rural areas and boost agricultural trade.

State Project Coordinator, Owara Obamwonyi, noted that the initiative is poised to “improve the welfare of rural communities and create economic linkages through better road networks.”

A highlight of the session was a workshop presentation delivered by Graham Smith, Lead Consultant from FPMU, which provided a framework for reform and spurred in-depth discussions among stakeholders, including local leaders, civil society groups, and development agencies.

With this move, Edo State is positioning itself as a model for rural infrastructure reform under Nigeria’s RAAMP initiative.