The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation and maintenance of Nigeria’s existing road infrastructure rather than embarking on new road construction projects.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Obi reiterated his long-standing position that restoring critical highways should take precedence over announcing new infrastructure projects.
According to him, many of Nigeria’s major roads have deteriorated significantly, creating hardship for commuters, businesses and transport operators while slowing economic activities.
He argued that available public resources should be channelled toward reconstructing and maintaining existing roads to make them safe and motorable before initiating new projects.
As an example, Obi highlighted the Asaba–Benin Road, describing it as one of the country’s most strategic highways that urgently requires rehabilitation.
He noted that the road serves as a vital transport corridor for travellers from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and parts of Benue and Kogi States travelling to Lagos and other parts of the country.
According to Obi, the poor condition of the highway has resulted in persistent traffic congestion, increased travel time and imposed significant economic and social costs on motorists and commercial transport operators.
He observed that the challenges facing the Asaba–Benin Road are similar to those affecting many other critical highways across Nigeria.
“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 further argued that projects undertaken primarily for political visibility should not take precedence over addressing the urgent need to restore existing infrastructure.
He maintained that rehabilitating major highways across the country would have a more immediate and meaningful impact on the lives of Nigerians than launching new road construction or dualisation projects while existing roads continue to deteriorate.
Obi concluded his statement by expressing optimism about the country’s future, reaffirming his belief that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”