The road situation in Nigeria, particularly in the Calabar/Itu and Calabar/Ogoja stretches, has become a major concern for many drivers and road users. This deterioration of road infrastructure impacts not only commercial activities but also the mobility of people, causing a series of problems for the population.
Bus drivers, like Adams Anekan, are expressing worry over the deplorable state of the roads, directly affecting their business operations. Due to the poor road quality, these drivers have to spend more on repairs and spare parts to keep their vehicles running. This increase in costs is passed on to users, who must bear higher transport expenses.
Furthermore, drivers find themselves stuck for longer periods on damaged road sections, significantly extending their travel time. This inefficiency in road travel directly impacts the local economy, reducing the profitability of commercial activities and increasing the cost of basic products, such as food.
Calls for intervention from the federal government and stakeholders are on the rise, in the hope of swiftly finding solutions to this critical situation. Construction works on the Calabar/Itu road project are deemed too slow and insufficient to meet the urgent needs of the population. With the upcoming rainy season, the concerns of drivers and road users are escalating, indicating that the situation may worsen without prompt measures.
It is crucial for the government and stakeholders to prioritize the renovation and maintenance of roads to ensure the safety of road users and stimulate the economic development of the region. By investing in road infrastructure, Nigeria can enhance the quality of life for its people and foster long-term socio-economic growth.
In conclusion, the deteriorating roads in the Calabar/Itu and Calabar/Ogoja areas require immediate action. Apart from enhancing traffic flow and reducing transport costs, rehabilitating road infrastructure will benefit the entire community by fostering socio-economic development and strengthening connections between different regions of the country.