Investigation of Pavement Deterioration Patterns and Maintenance Strategies in Nigerian Road Networks

Abstract

Nigeria’s road network faces chronic pavement deterioration, prominently featuring potholes, alligator cracking, rutting, surface wear, and other distresses nationwide. This paper rigorously investigates these deterioration patterns, thoroughly analyzing their underlying factors, including axle overloading, inadequate drainage infrastructure, substandard construction materials, poor workmanship, insufficient pavement design, and harsh climatic conditions. Furthermore, it critically evaluates existing pavement management and maintenance practices adopted by Nigerian authorities, specifically the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and various state public works departments, highlighting key strengths and substantial shortcomings. Utilizing case studies and empirical field data collected from high-traffic corridors and regions with extreme weather, the study illustrates how inadequate structural designs, frequent heavy rainfall, material failures, and maintenance gaps cumulatively accelerate premature road deterioration. The analysis reveals significant deficiencies in funding, planning, institutional coordination, and execution of maintenance strategies. Consequently, the paper proposes evidence-based recommendations aimed at achieving sustainable pavement management, including stringent axle-load regulation, improved drainage designs, higher construction standards, systematic adoption of preventive maintenance programs integrated with Pavement Management Systems (PMS), establishment of dedicated road maintenance funding mechanisms, and enhanced technical capacity and accountability. This structured scholarly investigation aims to inform infrastructure stakeholders and policymakers, advocating effective, proactive strategies to extend pavement service life and ensure safer, economically viable road transport networks in Nigeria.