NDC 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has renewed his call for the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s major highways instead of embarking on fresh road construction projects, warning that many existing routes have become a burden to motorists and businesses.
Obi made the remarks in a statement on Monday while expressing concern over the worsening condition of the Asaba–Benin Road, which he described as one of the country’s most important transport corridors.
According to him, the highway serves as a major link for travellers moving between Lagos and several states, including Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, as well as parts of Benue and Kogi.
He said large portions of the road have deteriorated badly, leading to prolonged traffic gridlock and creating hardship for commuters, transport operators and commercial activities.
Obi maintained that repairing existing highways should take precedence over launching new road projects or expanding roads that deliver limited value to road users.
“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 dualization projects that offer marginal benefits, our primary focus ought to be on repairing the critical roads already in place.
“Consider, for instance, the Asaba–Benin Road. This thoroughfare is a vital artery within Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure. Travellers traversing from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and portions 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 lamented.
The former Anambra State governor said the poor state of the Asaba–Benin Road mirrors the condition of many strategic highways across the country.
“Regrettably, this situation is not unique; it reflects the reality on many of our busiest national highways.
“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 submitted.