Nigeria’s deteriorating road infrastructure is exacerbating many issues, including illegal taxation, human rights violations, inflation, and environmental disasters. This dire situation is impacting the ease of doing business, leading to significant food waste and complicating the transportation landscape. The Guardian reports on the challenges faced by citizens and businesses due to the poor state of transportation infrastructure.
One harrowing story is that of Rabiu Musa, who lost his life over a bribe dispute with a Nigerian police officer. The incident highlights the rampant corruption and violence associated with the country’s road conditions. Musa, a truck driver transporting tomatoes, was killed in Lokpanta, Abia State, after a disagreement over a mere N200 bribe. His death underscores the danger and extortion that truck drivers face, especially in the South-South and South-East regions of Nigeria.
The deteriorating roads not only pave the way for corruption but also hinder economic activities. Truck drivers like Munsu Saliu and Mohammed Musa have endured brutal beatings and injuries due to confrontations at illegal checkpoints and with unauthorized tax collectors. These incidents are not isolated but reflect a widespread issue affecting many regions in Nigeria, including Ologbo and Edo State, where unregulated groups exploit poor road conditions to exact illegal tolls from travelers.
In Ekpoma, truckers encounter a different challenge. They are forced to choose between taking a dilapidated federal road or paying exorbitant fees to pass through the township road, with the latter option often involving illegal taxation of up to N70,000. This predicament highlights the desperate situation faced by truck drivers, many of whom transport perishable goods and are under pressure to avoid delays.
The implications of these road conditions are far-reaching. Besides the immediate financial and physical toll on drivers, there’s a broader impact on the economy. The inefficiency in transporting goods leads to increased costs for businesses, contributing to the country’s soaring inflation rates. Additionally, the poor state of the roads causes significant food wastage, as perishable goods often spoil during prolonged journeys.
Nigeria’s road network, spanning 195,000 kilometers, is in desperate need of repair. The Federal Government estimates that about N18.6 trillion is required to fix federal roads over the next four years. This estimate starkly contrasts with the previous projection of N1.3 trillion by former Minister Babatunde Fashola. The disrepair of these roads is not only a transportation issue but also a political one, where repairs are often influenced by regional favoritism rather than economic impact.
The overreliance on roads for transportation, due to the underutilization of other modes like railways and waterways, adds to the strain. The railway network, totaling just 3,798 kilometers, and the pipeline system, spanning 5,001 kilometers, are not sufficient to alleviate the pressure on road transportation. The result is a heavy dependence on an already overwhelmed road network, leading to frequent traffic jams and accidents.
The situation is compounded by Nigeria’s complex tax system, where businesses face over 60 different taxes, leading to loopholes and exploitation by illegal tax collectors. This system not only hampers economic growth but also contributes to the country’s rising inflation, as the cost of logistics significantly impacts the price of goods and services.
As truck drivers navigate these challenging conditions, the toll on their personal lives is immense. Many struggle to provide for their families, with children dropping out of school due to financial constraints. The road conditions also pose severe environmental risks, as frequent accidents lead to oil spills and other environmental hazards.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s failing transportation infrastructure is a multifaceted crisis that requires urgent attention. These road conditions hinder the government’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and economic challenges. Comprehensive infrastructure improvement, along with reforms in the taxation system, is crucial for the country’s economic development and the well-being of its citizens.
