Former Labour Party presidential candidate and National Leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reiterated his call for the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation of existing roads instead of embarking on new road construction projects that, according to him, offer limited immediate value.
In a post shared via his X handle on Monday, Obi argued that Nigeria’s scarce resources should be channelled towards restoring critical road infrastructure already serving millions of commuters and businesses across the country.
According to him, repairing existing roads should take precedence over constructing new highways or embarking on road dualisation 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,” Obi wrote.
“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.”
The former Anambra State governor cited the Asaba–Benin Road as an example of a major federal highway requiring urgent intervention, describing it as one of Nigeria’s most important transport corridors.
According to Obi, the road serves as a key link for travellers moving between Lagos and several southern and north-central states, including Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, as well as parts of Benue and Kogi states.
“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.
Obi noted that the situation on the Asaba–Benin Road reflects the condition of many of Nigeria’s busiest highways, which he said continue to deteriorate despite repeated announcements of new infrastructure projects.
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“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 said.
He further argued that political considerations should not override the urgent need to rehabilitate existing infrastructure.
“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.
The former presidential candidate concluded his message with his familiar campaign slogan, saying, “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
