Revamped Edo Line Set to Resume Operations on June 27, Governor Okpebholo Announces

The Edo State-owned transport company, Edo Line (officially known as New Edo Line Nigeria Limited), is set to resume full operations on June 27, 2025. This highly anticipated announcement was made by Governor Monday Okpebholo during an inspection tour of ongoing projects and the revamped transport terminal in Benin City on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

The resumption of Edo Line aims to provide enhanced and more affordable transportation options for commuters within and across Edo State, addressing a long-standing challenge in public transport services. The company, which had been moribund for several years due to various issues including mismanagement and dilapidated infrastructure, is being revitalized under the current administration’s commitment to improving public utilities.

Governor Okpebholo expressed his satisfaction with the progress of work at the New Edo Line station, located on James Watts Road, Benin City. “I have just come to look at the work that is going on here, in the New Edo Line station. The vehicles are ready. Everything is set. We are trying to see how we can commence. The idea is to come and look at the level of preparation of our commencement,” the Governor stated.

The Managing Director of the Edo State Transport Authority, Oligbe Henshaw, affirmed the terminal’s readiness and the June 27 commencement date. “This is the State terminal for the New Edo Line Nigeria Ltd. And by the special grace of God on the 27th of June this year, we shall be commencing operations properly,” Henshaw assured. He added that ongoing projects at the terminal, including partitioning, CCTV installation, and the control room, are scheduled for completion by next week Friday, June 20, 2025.

The revitalization of Edo Line follows earlier efforts by Governor Okpebholo, who in February 2025, commissioned 56 new Toyota Hiace buses for the state-owned transport service, as part of a broader plan to acquire 100 buses to boost public transportation. While free bus services approved in November 2024 were temporarily suspended to address operational issues within the Edo City Transport Service (ECTS), the current focus is on a structured and sustainable return to service for Edo Line.

The Governor’s inspection tour also extended to other critical infrastructure projects in Edo South, including the Sapele Road, a major federal artery connecting Edo and Delta States, where he urged contractors to accelerate work to alleviate persistent traffic congestion. Inspections also covered Temboga Road and Palace Road, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving road networks across the state.

The re-launch of the Edo Line is expected to significantly improve inter-city and intra-city transportation, offering residents a modern, efficient, and reliable travel experience. It represents a significant step towards fulfilling the government’s promise to enhance the quality of life and economic competitiveness for all residents of Edo State through improved public services.