ABUJA — In a bold move aimed at curbing inefficiencies and safeguarding freedom of movement, Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has ordered the immediate dismantling of non‑essential static roadblocks and unauthorized checkpoints across several key national highways. The directive contained in an internal communication dated December 5 and signed by Brigadier General A. Rabiu “for CDS” warns that a proliferation of roadblocks and checkpoints along major routes threatens both operational effectiveness and the safety of civilians and troops.
The order identifies a number of major corridors where blockades must be removed. Among them are Abuja–Lokoja–Ajaokuta–Idah–Otukpa–Obollo Afor–Enugu; Abuja–Lokoja–Obajana–Kabba–Omuo–Ekiti–Ikole Ekiti; Abuja–Lokoja–Okene–Okpella–Auchi–Benin; Abuja–Kaduna–Kano; and Lagos–Ore–Benin–Asaba–Niger Bridge.
DHQ’s communiqué argues that, while road security remains a priority, the mounting number of unauthorized static posts has begun to undermine operational mobility and “disrupt freedom of movement for both security forces [and] civilians,” while exposing troops to avoidable risk.
Under the order, military services — including all Theatre Commands (TCs) and Force Commands (FCs) — are instructed to immediately dismantle non‑essential roadblocks within their respective areas of operations (JOA). Commanders are instructed to replace obsolete static checkpoints with more flexible security arrangements, relying instead on mobile patrols and intelligence‑driven operations. Only “approved control point locations” are to remain active.
This policy shift comes amid mounting public concern about widespread disruptions on major transport arteries, often blamed on unauthorized security checkpoints that slow down travel, inflate transport costs and create hazards for both motorists and security personnel. By calling for the removal of unauthorized posts, DHQ appears to signal a reorientation of military security strategy: from static control‑point enforcement toward dynamic, intelligence‑led operations.
Analysts suggest the directive could have wide‑ranging implications for commerce, public mobility and security operations. With roadblocks often contributing to delays in freight transport, supply‑chain bottlenecks and increased cost of goods, the removal order may ease the flow of goods and restore confidence in national transportation corridors. Simultaneously, for security forces, the shift could reduce vulnerability associated with fixed checkpoints — previously targeted in ambushes — and enable more agile deployment against insurgents and criminal groups.
Whether the directive by DHQ will be effectively implemented remains to be seen. The success of the order will depend heavily on disciplined enforcement by military commanders, transparency on approved control points, and consistent communication with state and regional authorities. For many Nigerians frustrated by constant roadblock‑induced delays and arbitrary checkpoints, the DHQ’s announcement represents a potentially transformative commitment to normalcy — and an opportunity for renewed stability on the nation’s highways.
Source: Sahara Reporters