The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reiterated his call for the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of existing roads over embarking on new road construction projects.
In a statement on his X handle on Monday, Obi said the government should prioritise the rehabilitation and maintenance of critical roads rather than embarking on new road construction and dualisation projects that offer limited benefits.
According to him, fixing the country’s existing road infrastructure would have a greater impact on the lives of Nigerians than announcing new projects.
Obi cited the Asaba–Benin Road as an example of a key federal highway that requires urgent attention, describing it as a vital transport corridor linking several states to Lagos.
“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 heading to Lagos are compelled to use this route,” he said.
He lamented that large sections of the road have deteriorated, resulting in persistent traffic congestion and causing hardship for commuters, businesses and transport operators.
Obi noted that the situation on the Asaba–Benin Road reflects the condition of many of Nigeria’s busiest highways, stressing that the government should focus on reconstructing and maintaining existing roads before announcing 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,” he stated.
The former Anambra State governor also argued that politically motivated infrastructure projects should not take precedence over addressing the poor condition of critical road networks across the country.
