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My Stance on Road Development There is a pertinent reason I have consistently advocated that we should refrain from initiating new road construction projects until we have thoroughly rehabilitated and maintained our existing road network. Instead of undertaking new ventures and dualization projects that offer marginal benefits, our primary focus ought to be on repairing the critical roads already in place. Consider, for instance, the Asaba–Benin Road. This thoroughfare is a vital artery within Nigeria's transportation infrastructure. Travellers traversing from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and portions of Benue and Kogi States to Lagos are compelled to utilise this route. Despite its significance, substantial sections of this road are in a lamentable condition. It has become a major impediment, precipitating persistent traffic congestion and inflicting undue hardship on travellers, businesses, and transport operators. Regrettably, this situation is not unique; it reflects the reality on many of our busiest national highways. Our efforts should be directed towards the reconstruction and maintenance of our current road infrastructure before we announce plans for new road projects. The Nigerian populace requires functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention. Efforts aimed at superficial improvements for political gain should not supersede the urgent need to address the condition of our existing, critical roadways. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

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