Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has stressed the urgent need for a revamped road maintenance model to ensure the durability and safety of Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
Expressing his disappointment with the current ineffective system, he made this call during his visit to the site where a bridge on the Enugu – Port Harcourt Expressway had collapsed, specifically between the New Artisan flyover and the NNPC Mega Station.
Watch the video here
https://youtube.com/shorts/voGRg0eHd_Y?si=c1QtC0TRs_LPKSGM
Addressing the media after his on-site inspection, Governor Mbah expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the incident, despite its severity. He urged the federal government to contemplate granting concessions for all federal roads to state governments, allowing for more efficient maintenance in collaboration with the private sector.
Mbah emphasized the necessity of assessing the efficacy of the existing federal road maintenance model, questioning its effectiveness. He highlighted that the bridge collapse could have been prevented with regular maintenance and vigilance.
He further stated, “Perhaps the most viable solution is to grant states the responsibility for maintaining roads within their territories, fostering a discussion on funding models.”
The bridge’s collapse on Monday disrupted the usual flow of traffic, inconveniencing commuters.
In the meantime, the Enugu State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Gerald Otiji, issued a statement advising commuters to utilize alternative routes such as Nza Street through New Haven or Ogui Road and Abakaliki Road while authorities work on immediate repair measures for the damaged section of the bridge.
