Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of existing roads rather than initiating new road construction projects.
Obi made the appeal in a post on his X handle on Monday, arguing that repairing critical highways across the country would have a greater impact on Nigerians than launching new road projects or dualisation schemes.
According to him, successive governments should focus on restoring Nigeria’s deteriorating road infrastructure before announcing fresh 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.
“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,” he wrote.
Obi cited the Asaba–Benin Road as an example, describing it as one of Nigeria’s most important transport corridors linking several states in the South-East, South-South and parts of the North-Central region to Lagos.
He lamented that large sections of the highway had fallen into disrepair, resulting in severe 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,” he stated.
The former governor said the condition of the Asaba–Benin Road mirrors the state of many of Nigeria’s busiest highways, stressing the need for urgent reconstruction and regular maintenance.
“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,” Obi added.
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