Overview of Abuja’s Major Expressways
Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, is served by several major expressways that facilitate transportation and connectivity within the region. Among these, the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) and the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) stand out as the two primary roads that form the outermost boundaries of the city. Both expressways originate from a common starting point near the base of Aso Rock, which is a prominent landmark in Abuja. The ONEX extends towards Zuba, while the OSEX heads towards Gwagwalada before ultimately connecting to the Trunk A-2 Kaduna-Lokoja Federal Highway.
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Before the establishment of the Abuja Master Plan, the existing federal road corridor was represented by the Trunk A-234. This route linked the former Abuja, now known as Suleja, through Gwagwa, Karmo, Wuse, Nyanya, and Keffi, eventually linking to the A-3 at Akwanga. However, the implementation of the Abuja Master Plan led to significant changes, including the realignment of the A-234. This realignment resulted in the creation of the ONEX, which runs from Zuba through Kubwa to AYA. The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) took over the responsibility for the construction and maintenance of this section.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Works continues to manage the A-2 and the remaining portion of the A-234. However, there is a noticeable disparity in the quality and standards of work between the ONEX, managed by the FCDA, and the A-2, handled by the Federal Ministry of Works.
Importance of Road Improvements
The need for upgrading the road standard on the A-2, which connects Kano through Kaduna and Abuja to Lokoja, has been recognized and initiated by previous administrations. This initiative has continued under the current government, and it is commendable given the high volume of traffic that uses the road. The traffic includes everything from private vehicles to heavy trailers, making the road a critical artery for both commercial and personal travel.
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Abuja has three major entry routes that contribute significantly to traffic congestion during peak hours. These are the ONEX, the Airport Expressway, and the Nyanya-Keffi Expressway. Among these, the ONEX/A-2 junction at Zuba is particularly notorious for its chaotic conditions.
Challenges at Zuba Junction
Zuba Junction is widely regarded as one of the most congested areas in Abuja. This is primarily due to the fact that the A-2 serves as a crucial link for traffic moving between the industrial cities of Kano and Kaduna and the Federal Capital. The junction also serves as a meeting point for traffic heading towards Lagos and other southern regions. Additionally, daily commuters from Suleja, a neighboring town, further contribute to the traffic load.
The condition of the road around Zuba Junction exacerbates the problem. Potholes and poor road maintenance lead to frequent traffic jams, especially during peak hours. The presence of an informal motor park within the cloverleaf circles, which should be designated for green spaces, and the misuse of the shoulders by commercial motorists further complicate the situation. When vehicles break down, which happens almost daily, the resulting delays can be extremely frustrating, particularly for those stuck in traffic.
Impact of Madallah Market
Another factor contributing to the congestion is the proximity of the Madallah Market to Zuba Junction. The market attracts a large number of visitors from the surrounding region, leading to significant traffic disruptions. On Thursdays, when the market is particularly busy, many motorists choose to avoid the area altogether. A short stretch of road that would normally take a minute to traverse can turn into a lengthy ordeal, especially during peak times.
The gridlock caused by the market can extend for several kilometers, sometimes reaching as far as the base of Zuma Rock. Incidents such as accidents or breakdowns at critical points often worsen the situation, overwhelming traffic control agencies and security personnel.
Ongoing Construction and Future Outlook
Construction and expansion of the A-2 Expressway have been ongoing for some time, with the critical point being the ONEX/A-2 Junction at Zuba. While the Federal Ministry of Works has made improvements in terms of road quality and concrete reinforcements, the pace of construction remains slow. This slow progress, combined with the already challenging traffic conditions, only adds to the chaos at the junction.
It is imperative that the Federal Ministry of Works addresses the dire situation at Zuba Junction and accelerates the completion of the project. Doing so would significantly alleviate the suffering of citizens who rely on this vital road for their daily commutes.
