I read in the media that FG backed introduction of tolls on federal roads and the Senate upheld the establishment of FERMA.
Many a times I wonder where are my teachers? Where are my professors? Where are engineers? Where are policy makers? Its unfortunate Nigeria is still at this state of back and forth after several years of failure and misappropriation of public funds. We have crude oil in abundance, bitumen flows like river in Ondo and we can’t manage to put in place serviceable trunk road networks connecting nooks and crannies… what a shame!
These leaders I know and sure of have been around the world and it’s certain that most of them studied and lived in UK, UAE, Singapore, US, Canada, etc. I have not seen government of those nations bill citizens with tolls on Federal roads which are supposed to be FREEWAYS except for PPP system roads which Lagos State is implementing (Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge, Ikoyi-Lekki Concession Expressway).
Introducing tolls can only work when we have true federalism and regional integration system. Using a toll road should be an option to motorists. They can either choose to merry-go-round by-pass highways or make their journey shorter by using toll roads.
Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as a case study;
It’s unfortunate to still be at stage of repair, rehabilitation since the 70s. Nigeria really needs to wake up. I'm still amazed of what stop leaders to implement common lifesaving policies which they enjoyed abroad before coming home to brainwash the populace and embezzle public funds. However, the best way to get out of this mess is for the citizens to stand up and hold them accountable.
Professionally, we need to know exact number of vehicle plying this route (categories). We need to open up new road networks for these route. Connecting states could open up their own route for shorter ride and introduce tolls for maintenance and further developments. Government must open up truck roads thereby prohibiting higher tonnage vehicles from plying lower tonnage designed roads. The Government must construct perimeter fence on both sides of the expressway thereby closing up access roads and enforce motorist to use designated exit routes.
There should be flyover at Berger, Mowe for Redemption camp commuters. Government should do more to construct light rail network along the corridor of this route. Government should engage right professionals to design and implement traffic and transport policies.
Government must take so important Quality Assurance Quality Control of materials used for constructions.
We must maximize our endowed natural resources for sovereign wealth.
The government of Nigeria and elsewhere can as well engage established (local and foreign) professional to achieving this target.
All the above solutions could be put in place if and only if leaders and citizens are ready for the change and better living they desire.
We are too rich to live below average.
God Bless Nigeria.
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