Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of existing roads rather than embarking on new road construction projects.
Obi made the call in a post on his X handle on Monday, arguing that repairing critical highways would have a greater impact on Nigerians than launching new road projects or dualisation schemes.
According to him, successive governments should focus on restoring the country’s deteriorating road network before announcing fresh infrastructure projects.
“There is a pertinent reason I have consistently advocated that we should refrain from initiating new road construction projects until we have thoroughly rehabilitated and maintained our existing road network,” he wrote.
“Instead of undertaking new ventures and dualisation projects that offer marginal benefits, our primary focus ought to be on repairing the critical roads already in place.”
Using the Asaba–Benin Road as an example, Obi described the highway as one of Nigeria’s most important transport corridors, linking several states in the South-East, South-South and parts of the North Central to Lagos.
He lamented that large sections of the road had fallen into disrepair, resulting in persistent traffic congestion and hardship for commuters, businesses and transport operators.
“Consider, for instance, the Asaba–Benin Road. This thoroughfare is a vital artery within Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure. Travellers from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and parts of Benue and Kogi States to Lagos are compelled to utilise this route.
“Despite its significance, substantial sections of this road are in a lamentable condition. It has become a major impediment, precipitating persistent traffic congestion and inflicting undue hardship on travellers, businesses, and transport operators.”
Obi said the condition of the Asaba–Benin Road reflects the state of many of the country’s major highways, stressing that rehabilitation and maintenance should take precedence over new projects.
“Our efforts should be directed towards the reconstruction and maintenance of our current road infrastructure before we announce plans for new road projects.
“The Nigerian populace requires functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention.
“Efforts aimed at superficial improvements for political gain should not supersede the urgent need to address the condition of our existing, critical roadways,” he added.
