Posted by Chinenye on Thu 17th Sep, 2026 - tori.ng
The government says drivers pay toll fees on some roads because the roads have been improved and need money for regular repairs.
(Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh. Photo by Arise news)
The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission has defended toll prices on upgraded highways, arguing they reflect the quality and improvements drivers gain from better roads.
Director-General Dr. Jobson Ewalefoh pointed to the Akwanga–Makurdi corridor as an example, noting that the 227-kilometre stretch has four toll gates where motorists pay as they travel.
Ewalefoh said toll charges should be weighed against what poor roads previously cost drivers through wasted time, vehicle damage and accident dangers.
Many motorists are willing to pay where they see clear road improvements, with some drivers even calling for similar arrangements on other major routes if upgraded to the same standard.
The regulator explained that toll pricing is carefully structured to keep costs fair as part of public-private partnerships.
A portion of revenue collected goes directly toward road maintenance, meaning government avoids extra upkeep costs during the concession period.
Under the agreements, crews must repair potholes within 48 hours while major routine work is funded from toll revenues.