By Solomon OKPO | January 21, 2026.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has flagged off the construction of a 500-capacity Central Tipper/Truck Park in Uyo, a move aimed at enhancing road safety, curbing traffic congestion and boosting the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
The project, located behind Champion Breweries along the Aka–Nung Udoe Industrial Layout, is designed to address the persistent problem of indiscriminate parking of heavy-duty trucks and tippers along major roads, particularly around production factories and construction sites—an issue that has contributed significantly to road obstructions and accidents across the state.
Flagging off the project on Tuesday, January 20, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke, said the initiative reflects the proactive commitment of Governor Umo Eno to the protection of lives, especially those of road users.
Dr. Luke, who was represented at the ceremony by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mrs. Grace Akpan, disclosed that the Central Tipper/Truck Park is part of a broader transport infrastructure plan by the state government. According to him, additional parks are being planned for Ntak Inyang Itam in Itu Local Government Area, as well as in each of the three senatorial districts of the state.
He explained that beyond improving traffic orderliness and road safety, the facility would generate employment opportunities for youths and serve as a steady source of revenue for the state. He further reaffirmed the government’s readiness to collaborate with transport unions and stakeholders in line with the ARISE Agenda.
The Commissioner commended the Union of Tippers, Suppliers and Quarry Employers of Nigeria (UTSQEN) for its partnership with the state government, describing the collaboration as critical to the successful take-off of the project.
Earlier, the State Chairman of UTSQEN, Comrade Edikan Iweh, expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for what he described as bold and deliberate reforms in the transport sector. He noted that the 500-capacity park would significantly enhance the movement of solid minerals within the state, with positive ripple effects on economic growth.
Comrade Iweh also praised Dr. Anthony Luke for his leadership and persistence, noting that the project had been abandoned for over two decades before the present administration revived it.
In recognition of his contributions to the transport sector and the successful flag-off of the project, UTSQEN presented the Commissioner with an award titled Best Transport Commissioner Ever.
The ceremony featured the hoisting of the Nigerian, Akwa Ibom State and UTSQEN flags at the project site as a symbol of authority and ownership.
Directors from the Ministry of Transport and other key stakeholders in the transport sector were in attendance.
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