South East Highways Must Be Fixed Before Christmas 2026—igbo Group Tells Umahi

South East Highways Must Be Fixed Before Christmas 2026—Igbo Group Tells Umahi

The Igbo Community Association, Abuja, has issued a strong demand to the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, to prioritise the federal highways repair linking the South East to other geopolitical zones before the yuletide travel rush in December 2026. In a statement signed by the association’s President-General, Nze Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, and its Secretary, Emmanuel Onah, the group warned that the current state of federal roads in the region has become a national embarrassment and a threat to public safety. The association emphasised that timely federal highways repair is critical to preventing further deterioration and ensuring safe travel during the festive season.

The call comes amid growing frustration among motorists, business owners, and commuters who continue to endure long hours of travel on roads that have become death traps due to severe potholes, erosion, and poor drainage systems. With less than four months remaining before the Christmas and New Year holidays—a period traditionally marked by heavy interstate traffic—the association insists that time is running out for meaningful intervention. They further stressed that delaying federal highways repair could exacerbate the already dire situation.

“The federal highways linking the South East to other parts of the country are in a state of disrepair that is not only unacceptable but also dangerous,” the statement read in part. “We urge the Honourable Minister to act swiftly, leveraging available resources and emergency protocols to ensure that these roads are motorable before the yuletide season.”

This intervention highlights a recurring pattern of neglect that has plagued Nigeria’s federal road network for decades, with the South East particularly affected due to its topography and high volume of vehicular traffic. Addressing the federal highways repair crisis here could set a precedent for nationwide infrastructure renewal.

Why the South East Roads Are a National Concern

Federal highways such as the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Onitsha-Enugu Expressway, and Aba-Owerri Road are critical arteries for commerce, agriculture, and human movement in the South East. These roads serve as lifelines for industries in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states, connecting them to seaports in Port Harcourt and Onne, as well as to major markets in Lagos and Abuja. Ensuring robust federal highways repair on these routes is essential to sustaining economic activities and livelihoods in the region.

However, years of underfunding, poor contract supervision, and corruption have left these highways in deplorable conditions. Sections of the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway, for instance, have become notorious for causing accidents, vehicle damage, and loss of livelihoods. Commuters often face delays of up to six hours, while truck drivers transporting goods incur additional costs due to vehicle repairs and increased fuel consumption from navigating rough terrain. Without urgent federal highways repair, these challenges will persist and worsen.

Economic analysts estimate that the poor state of federal highways costs Nigeria over ₦2 trillion annually in lost productivity, vehicle maintenance, and emergency repairs. For the South East, which contributes significantly to Nigeria’s manufacturing and agro-allied sectors, the impact is even more pronounced. The textile industry in Aba, for example, relies heavily on the Aba-Owerri Road for the movement of raw materials and finished goods. Prolonged closures or slow traffic on this route directly affect production schedules and profitability. Investing in federal highways repair here is not just beneficial but necessary for regional and national growth.

“The South East is the industrial heartbeat of the country,” said a local businessman in Onitsha who preferred anonymity. “But how can we compete when our roads are this bad? Investors are watching, and they are not impressed.”

The Role of the Ministry of Works Under Umahi

Since assuming office as Minister of Works in 2023, Engr. David Umahi has been vocal about his commitment to reviving Nigeria’s decaying infrastructure. His tenure has seen the rehabilitation of key roads in the North Central and South West zones, including the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria road and sections of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. However, progress in the South East has been slower, with critics pointing to bureaucratic bottlenecks and delayed funding as major obstacles. Accelerating federal highways repair in this region remains a key test of his administration’s resolve.

In response to the Igbo Community Association’s demand, the Ministry of Works issued a statement acknowledging the challenges but cited funding constraints and logistical hurdles as reasons for the delay. “While we share the concerns of stakeholders, the rehabilitation of federal highways is a complex process that requires meticulous planning, environmental impact assessments, and community engagement,” said a senior official who requested anonymity. “We are working to fast-track interventions, but we must balance urgency with sustainability.”

The minister has also highlighted the impact of recent economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, which have affected the naira’s value and, by extension, the cost of road construction materials. These reforms, while necessary for long-term stability, have temporarily increased project costs and stretched government resources thin. Despite these hurdles, prioritising federal highways repair remains a non-negotiable priority.

Despite these challenges, stakeholders argue that emergency repairs—such as patching potholes, clearing drainage channels, and installing temporary signage—could be implemented within weeks to mitigate the worst effects of the dilapidation. This approach, they say, is not unprecedented. In 2024, the Federal Government executed emergency repairs on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway just weeks before the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, allowing for smoother travel during the holiday period. A similar strategy could be deployed for the South East’s critical routes.

What Needs to Be Done: A Roadmap for Urgent Repairs

The Igbo Community Association and other stakeholders have outlined a series of immediate and long-term measures that the Ministry of Works must prioritise to address the crisis:

Immediate Actions (Before December 2026)

• Emergency patching and resurfacing: Focus on the most critical sections of the Enugu-Port Harcourt, Onitsha-Enugu, and Aba-Owerri roads. Use rapid-setting asphalt and concrete overlays to restore drivability and ensure these federal highways are safe for travel.
• Drainage clearing: Remove debris and silt from culverts and drainage channels to prevent flooding during the rainy season, which typically peaks in September and October. Proper drainage is a cornerstone of sustainable federal highways repair.
• Traffic management: Deploy temporary traffic control measures, including signage, roadblocks, and speed bumps, to guide motorists and reduce accident risks. These measures can be implemented quickly to enhance safety on federal highways.
• Public awareness campaigns: Partner with state governments and transport unions to inform the public about road closures, alternative routes, and safety tips for navigating damaged roads. Clear communication is vital during federal highways repair operations.

Medium-Term Measures (2027)

• Full rehabilitation contracts: Award comprehensive rehabilitation contracts for the identified highways, with clear timelines and penalties for non-performance. Prioritise roads with the highest traffic volumes and economic significance to maximise the impact of federal highways repair.
• Enhanced oversight: Strengthen the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and the Ministry of Works’ monitoring teams to ensure contractors adhere to specifications and timelines. Robust oversight is essential to the success of federal highways repair projects.
• Community involvement: Engage local communities in monitoring road conditions and reporting issues through dedicated hotlines or mobile apps, such as the Federal Ministry of Works’ existing complaint portal. Community participation can significantly improve the effectiveness of federal highways repair efforts.
• Alternative transport infrastructure: Invest in rail and inland waterway transport to reduce reliance on roads for goods and passenger movement, particularly in the South East. Diversifying transport options can alleviate pressure on federal highways.

Long-Term Strategies (Beyond 2027)

• Sustainable funding mechanisms: Explore public-private partnerships (PPPs), road tolls, and infrastructure bonds to generate stable funding for routine maintenance and upgrades. Innovative funding models are crucial for the long-term success of federal highways repair.
• Local content utilisation: Prioritise the use of locally manufactured construction materials and employ Nigerian engineers and labourers to boost the economy and ensure quality control. Leveraging local resources can enhance the sustainability of federal highways repair initiatives.
• Climate-resilient design: Incorporate climate adaptation measures, such as reinforced drainage systems and heat-resistant pavements, to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. Climate-resilient infrastructure is a key component of future-proof federal highways repair.

Comparing Nigeria’s Road Infrastructure to Regional Peers

Nigeria’s federal highways are not alone in their struggle. Across Africa, rapid urbanisation and increasing vehicle ownership have placed immense pressure on road networks, leading to congestion, accidents, and economic losses. However, Nigeria’s situation is exacerbated by systemic challenges such as corruption, inconsistent funding, and poor contract enforcement. Addressing these issues is critical to improving the effectiveness of federal highways repair in the country.

In Ghana, the government has made significant strides in rehabilitating key highways, such as the Accra-Takoradi Road, through a combination of domestic financing and donor support. The project, completed in 2025, has reduced travel time by 40% and boosted trade between the country’s industrial hubs. Nigeria could learn from Ghana’s approach to federal highways repair and adapt similar strategies to its context.

South Africa, despite its economic challenges, maintains a relatively well-funded road maintenance programme. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) leverages toll fees and PPPs to ensure that highways like the N1 and N3 remain in good condition. While tolls are unpopular in Nigeria, the model offers lessons in sustainable financing for federal highways repair.

Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway have also demonstrated how targeted investments can transform transport corridors. Nigeria could draw inspiration from these examples, particularly in adopting performance-based contracts where payments are tied to measurable outcomes. Such models could enhance the accountability and efficiency of federal highways repair projects.

However, Nigeria’s scale and diversity present unique challenges. With over 35,000 kilometres of federal roads and a population of over 200 million, the task of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure is monumental. The government must balance ambition with pragmatism, focusing on high-impact corridors while gradually expanding coverage. Prioritising federal highways repair in critical regions like the South East is a pragmatic first step.

The Human Cost: Stories from the South East Roads

Behind the statistics and policy debates are real people whose lives are directly affected by the state of federal highways. For Chidi Okonkwo, a commercial driver based in Aba, the Aba-Owerri Road has been a source of constant stress and financial strain. “I spend at least ₦15,000 weekly on repairs because of the bad road,” Okonkwo said. “Last month, I lost a wheel to a pothole, and it took me three days to get a replacement. My passengers were furious, and I lost their trust. How can I compete with drivers on better roads?” His experience underscores the urgent need for federal highways repair to restore livelihoods and economic stability.

For small-scale traders like Ngozi Eze, who transports agricultural produce from Umuahia to Onitsha, the delays caused by road conditions mean lost income and spoilt goods. “By the time I get to Onitsha market, half of my tomatoes are already spoilt,” she said. “I have to sell at a loss or throw them away. This road is killing our businesses.” Federal highways repair is not just an infrastructure issue but a lifeline for traders and their families.

These personal stories underscore the broader economic impact of dilapidated roads. The South East is home to industries such as shoemaking in Aba, furniture production in Nnewi, and palm oil processing in Owerri. The inability to move goods efficiently stifles growth and discourages investment. Without federal highways repair, the region’s economic potential will continue to be constrained.

Moreover, the psychological toll on motorists cannot be ignored. Long hours spent navigating treacherous roads lead to fatigue, stress, and increased risk of accidents. In 2025 alone, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) recorded over 5,000 road crashes on federal highways in the South East, resulting in hundreds of fatalities. Addressing the federal highways repair crisis is a matter of public safety and national urgency.

Government’s Response: Is It Enough?

The Federal Government has acknowledged the urgency of the situation. In July 2026, the Minister of Works announced a ₦500 billion intervention fund for the rehabilitation of federal roads nationwide, with a significant portion allocated to the South East. The funds are expected to cover emergency repairs and kickstart full rehabilitation projects on critical corridors. This commitment to federal highways repair is a positive step forward.

Additionally, the government has promised to fast-track the completion of ongoing projects, such as the second Niger Bridge and the Owerri-Aba Road dualisation. These projects, when completed, will significantly ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the region. However, their success hinges on the effective implementation of federal highways repair strategies.

However, critics argue that past interventions have often been marred by corruption and inefficiency. The 2024 audit of the Sukuk-funded road projects, for instance, revealed that over ₦30 billion was misappropriated through inflated contracts and substandard materials. To restore public confidence, the Ministry of Works must ensure transparency in the award and execution of contracts. Transparency is a cornerstone of credible federal highways repair initiatives.

Transparency International Nigeria has called for the establishment of an independent oversight committee to monitor the utilisation of the ₦500 billion fund. “Without accountability, the money will disappear, and the roads will remain the same,” said a spokesperson for the organisation. “The government must publish project timelines, contractor details, and progress reports regularly.” Such measures are essential to the integrity of federal highways repair efforts.

What Motorists and Commuters Can Do

While waiting for government action, motorists and commuters can take steps to protect themselves and their vehicles:

Before Traveling

• Plan your route: Use real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to identify road closures, potholes, and alternative routes. Avoid known black spots during peak hours to ensure a smoother journey on federal highways.
• Check your vehicle: Ensure your tyres, brakes, and suspension are in good condition. Carry a spare tyre, jack, and basic tools in case of a breakdown. Proper vehicle maintenance is critical when navigating poorly repaired federal highways.
• Travel during off-peak hours: If possible, avoid traveling on weekends or public holidays when traffic is heaviest. Early mornings or late evenings are often better for smoother journeys on federal highways.

During Travel

• Drive cautiously: Reduce speed in areas with visible potholes or erosion. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals that may dart onto the road unexpectedly. Caution is paramount on federal highways in need of repair.
• Keep a safe distance: Maintain a buffer zone between your vehicle and the one in front to avoid collisions caused by sudden stops or swerves. This is especially important on federal highways with uneven surfaces.
• Report hazards: Use the Federal Ministry of Works’ complaint hotline (0800-FERMA) or the FRSC’s emergency number (122) to report potholes, fallen trees, or other hazards. Reporting issues can help prioritise federal highways repair efforts.

After Travel

• Document damage: Take photos or videos of potholes, erosion, or other road defects and share them on social media with relevant hashtags, such as #FixOurRoads or #SouthEastRoadsNow. This increases public awareness and puts pressure on authorities to address federal highways repair needs.
• Join advocacy groups: Organisations like the Igbo Community Association, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are actively advocating for road repairs. Your voice can amplify their efforts to push for federal highways repair.

FAQ: Federal Highways Repair in Nigeria

Why are federal highways in the South East in such poor condition?

The poor state of federal highways in the South East is attributed to a combination of factors, including decades of underfunding, poor contract supervision, corruption, and the region’s challenging topography. Heavy rainfall and poor drainage systems have also exacerbated erosion and pothole formation. Addressing these root causes is essential to preventing recurring issues with federal highways repair.

What is the government doing to address the issue?

The Federal Government has allocated ₦500 billion for the rehabilitation of federal roads nationwide, with a significant portion earmarked for the South East. Emergency repairs are expected to begin before the end of 2026, while full rehabilitation projects will be rolled out in 2027. The government has also promised to fast-track ongoing projects like the second Niger Bridge and the Owerri-Aba Road dualisation. These steps are part of a broader strategy to improve federal highways repair across the country.

How can I report a pothole or road defect?

You can report potholes or road defects to the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) via their toll-free hotline: 0800-FERMA (0800-33762). Alternatively, you can use the FRSC’s emergency number: 122. Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook are also effective channels for reporting and raising awareness about road issues. Prompt reporting can expedite federal highways repair efforts.

The Way Forward: A Call to Action

The demand by the Igbo Community Association for urgent federal highways repair in the South East is not just a regional issue—it is a national imperative. Safe, reliable roads are the backbone of economic growth, social cohesion, and national integration. The upcoming yuletide season presents an opportunity for the Ministry of Works to demonstrate its commitment to delivering on its promises. Prioritising federal highways repair is a tangible way to show leadership and impact.

However, government action alone is insufficient. Citizens, businesses, and civil society organisations must hold authorities accountable, demand transparency, and support advocacy efforts. The South East cannot afford another year of neglect, broken promises, and avoidable tragedies on its roads. Collective action is key to ensuring that federal highways repair is not delayed further.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and infrastructure deficits, the rehabilitation of federal highways must be treated as a priority. The cost of inaction—lost lives, stifled economic growth, and diminished national pride—far outweighs the investment required to fix the roads. For the millions of Nigerians who rely on these highways daily, the message is clear: fix the roads now, before it’s too late.

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