Fix bad roads before constructing new ones – Peter Obi tells Nigerian Govt

Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the Federal Government to direct efforts towards the reconstruction and maintenance of the nation’s current road infrastructure before announcing plans for new road projects.

Obi made the! call in a post on his verified X handle on Monday, stressing that Nigerians require functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention.

He cited the Asaba–Benin Road, noting that it is a vital artery within Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure.

The former Anambra State jgovernor said 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 the route.

According to him, despite its significance, substantial sections of the road are in a lamentable condition.

Obi maintained that it has become a major impediment, precipitating persistent traffic congestion and inflicting undue hardship on travellers, businesses, and transport operators.

“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.

“Regrettably, this situation is not unique; it reflects the reality on many of our busiest national highways.

“Efforts aimed at superficial improvements for political gain should not supersede the urgent need to address the condition of our existing, critical roadways,” he wrote.