The African Development Bank (AfDB) has agreed to finance a road project in Benin connecting the country with its neighbouring African countries.

The $48m is expected to cover 91.40% of the total cost of the Ndali-Nikki-Chicandou-Nigerian Border Road Project.

The work, which is expected to be completed in June 2013, includes development and asphalting of a 77km stretch and ancillary works, according to allafrica.com.

The project, which is part of the Lamakara-Ndali-Chicandou-Nigerian border transit corridor, aims to lower vehicle operating costs and reduce loss of human lives, besides improving access to local and regional markets.