Dualisation of Enugu – Ugwuogo Nike – Opi Nsukka Road & Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s masterstroke: A lesson in priorities.
By Onyekachi C Ugwu
It cannot be contested to the contrary that leadership is not just a position but a call to serve and leave sustainable imprints on the sands of time, all which aggregate to ensure the greatest happiness of the greatest number. The Great utilitarian thinkers like Jeremey Bentham and John Stuart Mills all held the belief that the purpose of government, vis a vis leadership is to cater to the greatest happiness of the greatest number. It therefore bears stating that true leadership goes beyond holding a title or position of authority but more of a deep sense of responsibility to serve the and make positive impacts that would last beyond one’s own tenure.
Political leaders are therefore challenged to embrace the core purpose of leadership. Leaders who see their role as a call to serve prioritize the well-being and development of those they lead, rather than focusing solely on their own power or status. They strive to create lasting positive changes and leave a legacy that benefits the society as a whole. In Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah exemplifies a true leader in all ramifications, holding aloft the banner of leadership beyond postion. Since coming on board as the Governor of the State, he has left none except the infinitesimal community of naysayers in doubt of his commitment to give the people quality services. His administration has so far pursued development vigorously without leaving out any section of the state in its agenda of inclusivity.
It is therefore trite to State that the administration has embarked on the provision of critical infrastructures cutting across roads, water, education, security, health and agriculture as well as employment generation in line with his campaign promised.
During the recent Governor’s crucial parley with Stakeholders from Enugu North Senatorial District, the Governor announced that planned has been concluded for the b dualisation of Abakpa -Ugwuogo Nike- Opi- Nsukka road. According to the Governor, the road had already been scoped while work will begin in the coming dry season. He also announced that the 31-Kilometre Nsukka-Ibagwa–Ogurute-Ete road had also been scoped for reconstruction.
The dualisation of Abakpa-Ugwuogo Nike-Opi Nsukka Road is a significant infrastructure project that aims to improve connectivity and transportation in the state and beyond. This project will not only enhance the road network but also contribute to economic development and the social welfare of the people of Enugu State and Nigerians in general.
Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s masterstroke in prioritizing this project demonstrates the importance of investing in critical infrastructure that benefits the people. By focusing on key priorities such as the dualisation of that important road, Dr. Mbah has shown leadership and vision in addressing the issue of traffic congestion variously experienced along Nike Lake to ibagwa Nike axis, often times escalating up to Elim Estate and backward to cornerstone junction. The impact of traffic gridlock on businesses, healthcare delivery, civil and social welfare cannot be overemphasized.
This project will therefore serve as a valuable lesson in setting priorities and allocating resources effectively to achieve long-term benefits for all as against short term. It highlights the importance of strategic planning and decision-making in infrastructure development to create sustainable and inclusive growth.
The people of Enugu North Senatorial District who are the major beneficiaries of this great project must be thankful to Governor Mbah for a timely intervention as they set to maximise the benefits among which includes but not limited to improved safety. Dual carriageways typically have a central reservation or barrier separating the two directions of traffic, reducing the risk of head-on collisions and needless accidents. Over the years, several persons have lost their lives as a result of accidents along the road. This will grossly reduce and stop the needless depletion of our work force and viable youths.
In addition, dual Carriegway comes with an increased capacity. Since it has separate lanes for each direction of traffic it allows for higher traffic volumes and reduction of congestion and needless gridlock. Added to this is that it often has fewer intersections and access points, leading to smoother traffic flow and reduced delays. Of equal importance is improved journey times. Travelers along dual Carriegways enjoy reduced congestion leading to shorter travel times for motorists. This way, commuters maximise the benefits of time.
Overall, dual carriageways are designed to improve safety, capacity, and efficiency on major roadways, making them a preferred option for high-traffic routes. It is therefore a thing of joy that the Governor has committed to giving the People of Enugu North Senatorial District particularly and the entire road users a fresh breath and easier access to their destination.
Onyekachi C Ugwu writes from Trans Ekulu, Enugu
