By Paul Ebi
A concerned Delta resident, Festus Tony, has called on the state government to consider installing solar-powered streetlights along major communities on the Ughelli–Asaba road to enhance visibility and safety for motorists at night.
In a message addressed to the state governor, Tony expressed satisfaction with the level of construction and rehabilitation work done on the busy highway but urged that additional measures be taken to improve nighttime driving conditions.
“Your Excellency, I took time to drive from Asaba to Ozoro today. Glad to see the level of work done on the Ughelli/Asaba road. But I have a request which I think will be of great benefit,” Tony said.
He suggested that solar lights be installed in key communities such as Ibusa, Kwale, Oleh, and Ozoro, noting that such infrastructure would make night travel safer and more enjoyable.
“These lights can be installed in Ibusa, Kwale, Oleh, and Ozoro so that those driving at night will enjoy the road more. We need to enjoy our night driving like those in London,” he added.
Tony also encouraged the state government to explore public–private partnerships to fund the initiative, acknowledging that it may not be feasible to install lights across the entire stretch of the road.
“You can even do a partnership with private companies to assist the government,” he said.
The Ughelli–Asaba road remains one of Delta State’s most important routes, linking several major towns and serving as a critical economic artery for movement of goods and passengers across the region.
Observers say that the installation of solar streetlights, as suggested, could further improve security and economic activity along the route, particularly for night travelers.
