Federal Highway of Horror 2: Motorists and Travellers in Deep Anguish Across Nigeria’s Federal Roads

Many federal highways in Nigeria’s South-East and northern regions remain in deplorable condition, leaving motorists and travellers in distress. Despite a few recent rehabilitation projects, particularly in the South-East, a vast number of these roads are still in terrible shape — turning inter-state journeys into exhausting ordeals.

Across the country, road users lament the endless potholes, erosion, and abandoned construction sites that characterize these major routes. Travelling on some federal roads has become both time-consuming and risky, with countless vehicles breaking down or getting stuck along the way.

In the South-East, construction is ongoing on certain portions of the Onitsha–Enugu–Abakaliki Expressway, especially around the Enugu axis. While this offers a glimmer of hope for travellers, the overall condition of most highways in the region remains appalling.

In Abia State, the story is not much different. Numerous federal roads have deteriorated beyond measure, causing severe hardship for both residents and commercial motorists. However, there has been a notable improvement since Governor Alex Otti assumed office in 2023. His administration has intervened in several key routes, transforming once-impassable roads into motorable ones. Among these are the Mbaise–Umuahia Road, Port Harcourt Road in Aba, and the Ohafia–Arochukwu Road — all of which are now wearing a new look, easing movement and boosting local commerce.

Despite these interventions, several other federal roads across the state remain in dire need of attention. One particularly worrisome route is the 50-kilometre Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road, a critical highway that connects the South-East to the neighbouring South-South region. This vital road has deteriorated so badly that commuters and drivers constantly express fear and frustration. Its repair and completion have become urgent priorities to ensure safe and efficient inter-regional connectivity.

The poor state of Nigeria’s highways underscores the urgent need for the federal government to intensify its infrastructure maintenance strategy. As road users continue to bear the brunt of these deteriorated routes, stakeholders and civil society groups are calling for proper supervision, transparent funding, and sustainable road management systems to end this persistent menace.

Until concrete measures are taken, motorists and travellers will continue to endure the pains of Nigeria’s “Federal Highway of Horror.”