Peter Obi: No new Nigeria buildings, roads until existing infrastructure fixed
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, said that if he wins the January 16, 2027 election, he will halt all new building and road construction nationwide until existing infrastructure is repaired. He made the pledge during an exclusive interview with Arise Television on Thursday, September 8, 2026. Obi stressed that no new extensions for the President's office, the First Family, or any other government projects would be approved, insisting the administration would first fix what is already in place.
This focus on maintenance over new projects could reshape Nigeria’s construction sector, which employs millions and contributes significantly to GDP. Contractors reliant on new contracts may face reduced work, while citizens could see improved road conditions and public buildings if the backlog of repairs is addressed. The proposal also raises questions about funding, as maintenance alone may not meet growing urban demands, and about how long a freeze on new projects would last before economic pressures force a reversal.
For Nigerians, especially those in construction, real estate, or daily commuting, the key question is: Would you prefer a temporary pause on new projects in exchange for repaired roads and buildings, or does halting new construction risk stalling job creation and long-term development?