By Tony Okafor
When a state government intervenes in a federal responsibility purely out of concern for its people, it deserves commendation.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s decision to undertake the reconstruction of the Amawbia–Agulu–Ekwulobia–Uga road, a federal highway, is one such intervention that speaks loudly of altruism, vision and people-centred leadership.
This road is not just a stretch of asphalt; it is an economic artery. It links communities, eases movement, boosts commerce, and serves as a major gateway into Anambra State.
That the governor chose to deploy scarce state resources to fix a road used daily by Ndi Anambra, despite it being under the purview of the Federal Government, is a bold and commendable act of leadership.
It reflects a clear understanding that governance is ultimately about solving problems, not trading excuses.
Beyond functionality, the project has added remarkable aesthetic value to the state. Any visitor entering Anambra through this corridor cannot miss the unmistakable signs of work in progress.
The road announces, without words, that there is a government at the helm that believes in infrastructure as a marker of seriousness.
For this investment, Governor Soludo deserves applause.
However, commendation must not silence constructive criticism.
Road construction is not judged merely by speed or surface appearance, but by durability and engineering integrity.
The objective should not be to fix a road for today, but to build one that will last for decades.
In this regard, concerns are emerging that require urgent attention.
What is increasingly noticeable along sections of the road is what many have described as a “patch-patch” approach—frequent amendments, uneven layers, and visibly different colours of asphalt.
These inconsistencies are not just cosmetic issues; they often signal deeper problems in construction methodology, quality control, or materials used.
More worrying is the fact that some portions of the road have already started showing signs of failure, even before the project is fully completed.
This is disheartening and unacceptable for a project of such scale and importance.
Governor Soludo’s vision for Anambra is one of sustainability, value for money, and long-term impact.
To achieve this on the Amawbia–Agulu–Ekwulobia–Uga road, strict supervision is non-negotiable.
The governor must ensure that contractors are not merely meeting deadlines, but meeting standards.
Independent quality assurance, proper drainage systems, uniform surfacing, and adherence to engineering best practices are critical if the road is to serve Ndi Anambra for the next 20 years or more.
This is not a call to diminish the governor’s efforts; rather, it is a call to protect them. A well-executed project will not only stand the test of time but will also strengthen public confidence in the administration’s infrastructure drive.
On the other hand, a prematurely failing road risks undermining an otherwise laudable intervention.
In all, the Amawbia/Agulu/Ekwulobia/Uga road remains a good project—bold in intent, generous in spirit, and vital to the state.
What is required now is closer oversight to ensure that it is also well done.
Governor Soludo has shown leadership by taking up this road; he must now go the extra mile to ensure it becomes a lasting legacy rather than a recurring repair site.
Anambra has invested heavily in this project. It must pay off—not just in looks, but in longevity.
