President Jonathan Blames Deplorable Road Network On Past Govts

President Goodluck Jonathan has blamed successive administrations for the deplorable nature of federal roads across the country.

The President, who gave the blame in Asanetu in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State on Wednesday, during the flag off ceremony of the section VI stretch of Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway, regretted that roads constructed in 1970’s have not been maintained after they were done.

On Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Jonathan said: “The road was constructed in the 70’s as part of the Federal Government’s road expansion programme to enhance the movement of goods and services and to convey imported goods from the ports to the hinter land.

“It is common knowledge to all Nigerians that the road has deteriorated over time due to lack of adequate attention in terms of routine and periodic maintenance by successive administration.”

Represented by the Minister of Works, Mike Onolememn, Jonathan disclosed that his administration’s resolve to construct and rehabilitate federal roads across the country was to assuage the sufferings of Nigerians, who pass through untold hardship through these road corridors.

“This will go a long way in reducing road crashes and cost of maintaining vehicles plying the road. It is also consistent with the effort of my administration to deliver good quality roads in all geo-political zones in the country.”

He then urged all Nigerians to join hands with his administration “as we endeavour to bequeath a legacy of a strong road infrastructure base to our children and indeed future generations.”

In his address, Onolememen, represented by the Director of Highway Development, Bala Domshehu, said the section VI of the Aba-Port Harcourt, which stretches of the expressway traverses over 41.4km, will be completed within the next thirty months.

Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, thanked the President for awarding the road contract to a reputable Chinese firm, who has good tack record in road construction.

Represented by the state Commissioner for Environment, Chinwe Nwanganga, he assured Jonathan of the total support of the people of South East to is re-election in office.