Poor Roads: A Security and Economic Challenge
The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Nweze Umahi, on Thursday, criticized the poor condition of Nigerian roads, stating that they have become veritable tools for bandits and kidnappers. He explained that criminals exploit potholes and poor surface conditions to unleash mayhem on road users, further noting that these issues are a leading cause of road accidents.
Umahi made these remarks while delivering the 20th convocation lecture of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), titled “Transforming Our Road Networks for National Development: Challenges and Prospects” at Agbani, Enugu State.
Represented by the Senator representing Ebonyi North and the Chief Whip in the Red Chambers of the National Assembly, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, Umahi highlighted the need for increased budgetary allocation to road infrastructure. He stated that approximately N300 to N500 billion is required annually to maintain federal roads effectively.
However, he noted that the government of President Bola Tinubu is addressing the bad conditions of Nigerian roads through the “Renewed Hope Legacy Infrastructure Projects,” which include the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway among others.
According to the Minister, roads serve as arteries through which commerce flows, facilitating trade and fostering economic growth. “Nigeria, with its vast landmass of 923,768 square kilometers and a population of over 200 million, has a road network of approximately 200,000 kilometers. However, a staggering 63% of these roads remain untarred and most are in a state of despair,” he added.
University Leadership and Infrastructure Priorities
In his opening address, the Vice Chancellor of ESUT, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, lauded the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Works in addressing road infrastructure challenges in Nigeria. He praised Senator Umahi’s leadership, stating that significant transformation in road construction has occurred since his appointment.
However, Professor Okolie pointed out that key roads such as the Enugu-Port Harcourt and Enugu-Onitsha expressways have been abandoned, turning them into death traps for commuters. He emphasized the urgent need for their rehabilitation.
While appreciating the continued support of the Enugu State Governor, Barr. Peter Mbah, Professor Okolie highlighted that ESUT’s Management, with backing from the Governing Council, Senate, and students’ leadership, has stabilized staff promotions and conducted comprehensive staff regularization in the University. He also mentioned the institution’s great feats, including attaining 97% accreditation of its courses from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other academic regulatory bodies.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Occasion, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, commended the University Management for its unprecedented achievements in infrastructure upgrades and staff welfare. He reiterated the importance of prioritizing road infrastructure for sustainable national development, aligning with Senator Umahi’s message.
Road infrastructure remains a cornerstone of national progress. Addressing its current state is not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for ensuring security, economic growth, and overall development in Nigeria.
