Concerns over Nigerian highways maintenance: A Call to action
As the Nigerian economy continues to grapple with various challenges, one critical issue that demands immediate attention is the deplorable state of our highways. The pace of maintenance is alarmingly slow, and initiating new projects while major existing ones remain in disrepair is not only unjustifiable but also a recipe for disaster.
The poor condition of our highways is a major concern for citizens, businesses, and the government alike. Potholes, erosion, and poor road networks have become a norm, resulting in: Increased risk of accidents and loss of lives, higher vehicle maintenance costs for motorists, reduced economic productivity and competitiveness and negative impact on the quality of life for citizens.
It is imperative that the government prioritizes citizens’ welfare and acts in their best interest. This can be achieved by: Prioritising Maintenance – addressing existing infrastructure issues before embarking on new projects; Citizen-Centric Approach- ensuring government actions benefit the people, not just political interests and accountability – demanding transparency and accountability in infrastructure development.
The government should address the challenges facing our highways. The government should: Assess and Address by evaluating the current state of highways and allocate resources to repair and maintain them, develop a comprehensive plan by creating a long-term plan for infrastructure development, prioritising citizens’ needs and engage stakeholders by involving citizens, experts, and relevant parties in decision-making processes.
By prioritising citizens’ welfare and taking a proactive approach, the government can improve the nation’s infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for Nigerians. It is time for the government to take bold action and address the pressing issues facing our highways. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to build a better Nigeria.
Paul Jezhi writes from Keffi
pajezzy@gmail.com
Concerns over Nigerian highways maintenance: A Call to action, by Paul Jezhi brings to mind the Abuja – Lokoja highway project which has been ongoing for nearly two decades, with various approvals and funding allocations made over the years. The Abuja-Lokoja highway project was awarded as far back as 2006.
Research shows that during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, the dualisation of the 196 km Abuja-Lokoja highway was awarded in four sections to different contractors in November 2006, for an initial cost of N42.3 billion, with a 30-month completion timeline. However, the project faced significant delays, contract variations, and funding challenges, preventing its completion for many years.
The project was divided into four sections, with different contractors awarded for each: Section 1 (Abuja-Lokoja): Zuba to Sheda (42 km) – Dantata & Sawoe, section II (Sheda to Abaji): 57 km – RCC Construction Company Limited, section III (Abaji to Kotonkarfe): Bulletine Construction Limited and section IV (Kotonkarfe to Lokoja): Gitto Construction Limited. The project however, did not meet its 30-month completion deadline. The initial N42.3 billion contract has undergone multiple upward reviews over the years. Funding challenges and contract variations under subsequent administrations contributed to the project’s slow progress.
During former President Goodluck Jonathan’s regime, the project cost was significantly reviewed upward to N116 billion in September 2011. This augmentation was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), to change the scope of work to a full reconstruction (dual carriageway), instead of just rehabilitation, which was deemed necessary for the busy highway linking the northern and southern parts of the country.
Throughout the Jonathan administration, billions of dollars were allocated in annual budgets (partially through the SURE-P fund). However, there were reports of the government failing to pay contractors adequately or on time, leading to significant delays in the project’s completion, which stalled for many years.
In February 2022, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, approved N56.3 billion to complete the Abaji-Koton Karfe section of the Abuja-Lokoja highway, which started in 2006. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, during an inspection in September 2025, set a completion deadline of April 2026, for the ongoing project.
The Abuja-Lokoja highway project, initiated in 2006, has faced significant delays, cost overruns, and numerous completion date changes due to factors like funding issues and contract variations. While sections have been completed or are near completion, the project as a whole remains ongoing, with a current target for completion set for April 2026 by the Minister of Works. Recent efforts have focused on accelerating progress, and the government has warned it may involve anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and ICPC if contractors fail to meet performance standards.
Reports have it that some sections of the road, encountered problems due to unsuitable soil conditions, requiring additional work. Some contractors have switched from asphalt to cement-based construction, a change that the government views as a potentially better option, provided it does not compromise quality.
No doubt, the delay and ongoing nature of the project has led to poor road conditions, including potholes, cracks, and swerving sections, which can cause vehicle damage and accidents. Traveling to and from Abuja has become a nightmare, frustration and increased travel time. The highway is considered a high-risk route, with numerous accidents reported due to the road’s state. We just hope that the April 2026, date set by the Minister of Works, becomes a reality and not mere utterance.
