The Ongoing Struggle of Nigeria’s Highways
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a vital artery connecting the economic capital of Nigeria to its western regions, has long been synonymous with chaos. As 2025 approached, this notorious highway once again became a stage for daily gridlocks, trapping commuters and motorists between Magboro and Ojodu-Berger in an unrelenting cycle of frustration. This was not an unusual occurrence, but it marked a growing concern as residents began to forget the days when the expressway was plagued by even more severe disruptions.
In those earlier years, contractors and government officials were often blamed for the chaos. They would close sections of the road, forcing drivers into narrow lanes where they had to fight for space. Trapped in these conditions, vehicles would struggle through adjoining roads that led to dangerous areas such as swamps and places known for petty kidnappings and criminal activities. Trucks would break down at critical points, making passage impossible for any vehicle, no matter how small.
On one particularly difficult day in December 2020, I found myself stranded on the highway with my son, who was heading to an exam venue. After a long trek, we managed to find a motorcyclist willing to help. Though he claimed not to be an okada rider, his assistance was invaluable. We reached our destination late, only to find that the exam had already begun. Later that evening, I returned to retrieve my SUV, only to be met with curious onlookers who couldn’t understand why such a valuable vehicle had been left for so long.
This gridlock in 2025 was not just a result of government or contractor negligence. It was the work of criminal elements posing as scavengers and traders. These groups have found a safe haven in areas like Kara/OPIC, where they carry out their destructive acts. Between Magboro and Ojodu-Berger, they have vandalized expansion joints on bridges, creating hazards that force vehicles to crawl over them, often leading to costly tire replacements.
The contractors were forced to close parts of the bridges when the government decided to repair the damage caused by these vandals. As usual, the blame fell on the government and contractors, while the true culprits remained unnoticed.
In January 2025, the Emperor of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, declared war on FCT vandals after they stole manhole covers, solar lights, and flyover rods in partnership with scrap market operators. Despite arrests, no real punishment followed, highlighting the deep-rooted issues within the system.
A train derailment in November 2025 on the Itakpe-Warri route due to stolen rail tracks further emphasized the severity of the problem. Similar incidents have occurred in Kaduna, with trucks and cars seized for carrying vandalized rail tracks. Yet, the perpetrators remain free, benefiting from a system that prioritizes cash over justice.
The issue is not limited to railways. Recent reports indicate that vandalism has spread to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a project funded with a massive N15tn budget. This new highway, which promises to boost the economy, now faces threats from the same criminals who have destroyed other public facilities.
Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, recently threatened to close parts of the expressway due to reckless driving, which had resulted in the death of a worker. What he may not have realized is that the same vandals are now targeting the new roads, undermining the progress made.
Street urchins have claimed ownership of the highway, creating illegal crossing points and filling medians with sand. Streetlights and other facilities are being stolen, and the roadsides have become unofficial refuse areas. The ubiquitous ‘okada’ riders are also becoming a menace, often defying traffic rules and endangering others.
An Indian driver once asked about the differences between driving in Nigeria and his home country. While he noted the lack of adherence to traffic rules, he didn’t fully grasp the extent of the indiscipline in Nigeria. Our drivers often break rules, justify their actions, and blame the government for the chaos.
It is not my intention to solely blame the government, but it is clear that enforcement of existing laws is lacking. Laws exist, but they are not enforced effectively. Technology can play a crucial role in tracking and punishing those who destroy public facilities.
The government must take immediate action to protect the coastal highway before it becomes another symbol of neglect. Without proper enforcement, this vital infrastructure will fail to serve its intended purpose.
