The deteriorating state of the Nekede-Ihiagwa road in Owerri, Imo State, has become a major source of concern for residents, students, and visitors alike.
This crucial road serves as a primary gateway to two prominent federal institutions: the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).
Despite its importance, the road remains in deplorable condition, causing significant hardship and frustration among all who use it.
The poor state of the road has forced commuters, including students and staff of these institutions, to endure long travel times and unsafe conditions.
Parents and guardians are also affected, burdened by soaring transportation costs as many are compelled to spend heavily to ensure their children’s access to education.
The road’s rough terrain not only threatens vehicles but also jeopardizes the health and safety of pedestrians struggling to navigate deep potholes and flooded sections, exacerbated by the rainy season.
The Nekede-Ihiagwa road’s dilapidation has economic consequences as well. Billions of naira have already been lost due to the inefficiency and damage caused by this unsuitable infrastructure.
Moreover, the government’s acknowledgment of the problem is reflected in the Imo State budget for 2025, which allocates funds specifically for road construction and rehabilitation projects.
Notably, an amount of about ₦6.8 billion is earmarked for the construction and rehabilitation of the Naze-Ulakwo-Okpala-Owerrenta road segment, which includes the Nekede-Ihiagwa-Obinze dual carriageway.
Governor Hope Uzodimma, in presenting the 2025 budget tagged the “Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities,” detailed ongoing efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure, especially rural roads across the three senatorial zones of Imo State.
This budget, which totals approximately ₦756 billion, highlights a commitment to rehabilitating major roads to boost economic activity within the state.
Road projects form a substantial part of this budget, showing that the government is aware of the critical role of road infrastructure in development.
Besides road construction, the 2025 budget plan also focuses on enhancing power supply states-wide, healthcare facilities, schools, and community development projects.
However, roads remain a top priority given their strategic importance to local economies and accessibility.
The governor emphasized projects like the dredging of Oguta Lake and Orashi River for improved connectivity, signaling a broad vision for infrastructural development that includes transport as a pillar.
Despite these promises, residents and commuters express impatience and frustration over the slow pace of road repairs. Villagers along the Nekede-Ihiagwa corridor complain about alternate routes falling apart due to overuse and weather damage.
For instance, a village road in Umuanunu, often used to bypass the main road during repairs, has itself been severely damaged by heavy rains and heavy-duty vehicles.
Local leaders have threatened to restrict usage of these roads by large trucks to preserve their condition and protect their community’s tranquility.
Major questions remain: Where have these budgeted funds gone to? When will available infrastructure get to reflect bogus budgets in Imo state?
In conclusion, however, while the Imo State government has budgeted funds to address the road infrastructure crisis, including the Nekede-Ihiagwa road, tangible improvements are still awaited.
The road remains a lifeline for thousands of students and residents connected to key federal institutions and surrounding communities.
Ongoing budget allocations for road construction and rehabilitation offer hope, but the urgency for prompt action to restore this vital corridor cannot be overstated.