Okonjo-Iweala Laments Nigeria’s Poor Maintenance Culture, Urges Country To Prioritize Upkeep Of Infrastructure, Public Assets

By Akinwale Kasali

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, WTO, has faulted Nigeria’s poor maintenance culture. She described it as worrisome.

She urged the country to make it a duty to prioritize  proper upkeep of infrastructure and public assets. That, she said, will  achieve sustainable economic growth.

She said in enjoying sustainable growth, it was necessary for Nigeria to have a strong maintenance culture.

Okonjo-Iweala, a former Nigeria’s Minister of Finance/ Coordinator of the Economy, made the remark while speaking at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026, held in Asaba, Delta State Capital.

She said: “We lack good maintenance culture in Nigeria,” and  highlighted it as one of the country’s longstanding development challenges.

She added that though Nigeria has invested significantly in infrastructure and public projects over the years,  inadequate maintenance often led to rapid deterioration of facilities, resulting in avoidable costs and reduced economic value.

At the moment, the Federal and State Governments have continued to seek strategies for attracting investment, improving infrastructure, and driving economic development, the statement of the WTO DG has become an eye opener in prioritizing and maintaining its assets and infrastructures at all levels.

The Delta State Economic and Investment Summit  brought government officials, business leaders, investors, and development partners to explore opportunities for economic growth, investment, and sustainable development in the State.