Nigeria’s transport sector is sinking deeper into crisis despite years of big-ticket projects and funding.

Congestion at Lagos ports alone drains over ₦2.5 trillion annually, with inefficiencies threatening the country’s role as a regional trade hub. Roads, which carry most goods and passengers, remain poorly maintained, dangerous, and overcrowded.

Rail projects such as the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna lines offer some relief, but delays and limited reach mean they fall short of expectations. Meanwhile, the removal of fuel subsidies has sharply raised petrol prices, pushing transport fares and the cost of goods beyond the reach of many Nigerians.

Experts warn Nigeria needs $575 billion in fresh investment to fix its transport gap. But funding shortfalls, corruption, and weak regulation continue to stall progress.

Digital tools like the Ètò electronic call-up system have eased some port traffic, yet systemic problems persist. Without urgent reforms to integrate road, rail, and waterways, analysts fear the country will lose competitiveness in regional trade while ordinary citizens pay more for less reliable transport.