By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The University of Benin Alumni Association (UNIBENAA) has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on dilapidated federal roads across the country, with particular emphasis on the South-South region.
The association also urged the Federal Ministry of Works to take urgent and decisive steps to rehabilitate critical federal highways, warning that the deteriorating condition of the roads continues to pose serious risks to motorists, commuters, businesses and the wider economy.
The resolutions were contained in a communique issued at the 106th UNIBEN Alumni Council meeting held at Sweet Spirit Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
The Council, according to the communique signed by the President Worldwide, Emmanuel Oriazuwa, Esq.; Honorary Secretary-General, Dcn. Benjamin O. Omere; and National Public Relations Officer, Ms Tosan Ganranwei, said urgent attention to the nation’s road infrastructure had become imperative.
The alumni body expressed particular concern over the condition of federal roads in the South-South, stressing the need for the Federal Government to treat their rehabilitation as an emergency.
It said improved road infrastructure would not only enhance the safety and mobility of Nigerians but also facilitate economic activities and strengthen connectivity across the region.
The Council also raised concern over the persistent rejection of accident and emergency victims by some hospitals and medical centres.
It called on the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Health to intensify public and institutional education on the legal obligations of hospitals and medical facilities in handling accident and emergency cases.
The association said greater awareness among healthcare providers of the relevant provisions of the law could help prevent avoidable deaths arising from delays or outright refusal to attend to victims of accidents and other emergencies.
On security, the Council acknowledged the efforts of the various arms of government in tackling insecurity and kidnapping across the country.
It, however, called for greater commitment from both government authorities and citizens to strengthen the protection of lives and property.
The alumni body stressed that combating insecurity required sustained collaboration between government agencies, security institutions and citizens, urging all stakeholders to do more to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
The Council also commended the Rivers State Government for what it described as its efforts in sustaining a peaceful environment in the state.
It praised the government for its strides in infrastructure development and encouraged the administration to maintain the momentum of development for the benefit of residents, investors and businesses operating in the state.
The association said a peaceful and secure environment remained essential for economic growth, investment and improved living conditions, adding that continued investment in infrastructure would further enhance the state’s development prospects.
The communique formed part of the resolutions adopted at the 106th Council meeting, which brought members of the UNIBEN alumni community together in Port Harcourt to deliberate on issues affecting the university, its alumni and the wider Nigerian society.
The Council reiterated its commitment to contributing constructively to national development while calling for responsive governance, improved infrastructure, greater security and a more effective healthcare system.
It urged relevant authorities to give prompt consideration to its recommendations, particularly the rehabilitation of federal roads and the proper treatment of accident and emergency victims in healthcare facilities.