Igali Raises Concern On Poor State Of South-South Roads, Impact On Businesses

The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Amb. Dr. Godknows Bolade Igali, has raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of roads across the South-South region, warning that poor road infrastructure is negatively affecting businesses, economic activities and the quality of life of residents.

Hotnews gathered that Dr. Igali made the remarks while appearing on Channels Television’s Morning Brief programme, where he examined some of the major challenges confronting the Niger Delta region, particularly the state of its road network and the consequences for socio-economic development.

The PANDEF National Chairman stressed that roads remain critical to the development of any economy, noting that the South-South region, despite its enormous contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth, continues to face significant infrastructure deficits.

According to him, the poor condition of several major roads in the region has made transportation difficult, increased the cost of moving goods and services, and created additional burdens for businesses and ordinary residents.

He noted that deteriorating roads do not only affect motorists and commuters but have wider implications for commerce, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics and other sectors that depend heavily on efficient transportation networks.

Dr. Igali expressed concern that businesses operating in the region are being compelled to spend more on transportation and vehicle maintenance as a result of bad roads.

These additional costs, he said, ultimately affect the prices of goods and services and reduce the competitiveness of businesses.

He also pointed to the human impact of inadequate road infrastructure, stressing that poor connectivity can limit residents’ access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.

The PANDEF chairman therefore called for urgent and sustained intervention by relevant authorities to rehabilitate existing roads and develop new infrastructure capable of meeting the growing transportation needs of the South-South region.

He emphasised the importance of improving connectivity among communities, local government areas and states in the region, arguing that a functional road network would unlock greater economic opportunities and promote regional integration.

The elder statesman further noted that improved roads would encourage investment by creating a more conducive environment for businesses to operate and expand.

Better connectivity, he said, would also facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and locally manufactured goods, thereby strengthening economic activities and creating employment opportunities.

The PANDEF National Chairman’s concerns come amid continuing calls from stakeholders across the Niger Delta for greater infrastructure development commensurate with the region’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy.

He maintained that addressing the region’s infrastructure challenges should be treated as an economic priority rather than merely a transportation issue.

Dr. Igali urged governments and relevant agencies to adopt a coordinated approach to road development, maintenance and rehabilitation, stressing that sustainable infrastructure is essential to improving the living standards of residents and accelerating economic growth.

He said urgent attention to the South-South road network would not only ease the daily difficulties faced by residents but also provide a major boost to businesses, investment and regional commerce.

The PANDEF chairman’s intervention has once again drawn attention to the need for stronger infrastructure planning and investment across the South-South, with stakeholders expected to continue pressing for practical measures that will transform the region’s road network and improve the overall socio-economic wellbeing of its people.

~ Hot News Reporters
Thursday, 27 August, 2026