By Solomon OKPO
EKET, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commissioned 4.8 kilometres of roads in Eket Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to completing viable projects inherited from previous governments for the benefit of the people.
The projects commissioned include the 2.4-kilometre Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo-Inyang Road and a 2.4-kilometre internal road network within Mkpok Estate Phases I and II.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremonies, Governor Eno said his administration remains focused on people-oriented development and would continue to complete projects capable of enhancing the socio-economic wellbeing of residents across the state.
He noted that the Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo-Inyang Road was inherited from a previous administration and was completed by his government because of its strategic economic importance to the communities it serves.
According to the governor, his administration is currently undertaking the construction of 38 kilometres of roads across Eket Local Government Area at various stages of completion and has approved an additional 12 kilometres, bringing the total road development package for the area to 50 kilometres.
He said the extensive road projects were in appreciation of the support and hospitality extended to him by the people of Eket and demonstrated his government’s determination to improve infrastructure throughout the state.
Governor Eno also urged youths in Eket and across Akwa Ibom to take ownership of public infrastructure within their communities and protect them from vandalism.
At the commissioning of the internal roads in Mkpok Estate, the governor described the estate as a vital residential and commercial hub in Eket, likening its significance to that of Ewet Housing Estate in Uyo.
He recalled his personal connection to the area, having lived and conducted business there for many years, and expressed satisfaction that the newly constructed road network would significantly improve accessibility and ease of movement within the estate.
The governor commended the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, and his team for the quality execution of the projects. He also announced plans to complete other ongoing projects in Eket, including the State Football Academy.
Providing an overview of the projects, Prof. Ibanga stated that the roads were constructed with adequate drainage infrastructure, including full outfall drains, to ensure durability and effective water management.
He praised Governor Eno for his unwavering commitment to completing inherited projects and advancing rural development across the state.
Welcoming the governor on behalf of the people of Eket, Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Hon. Akaninyene Tommey, lauded the governor for fulfilling his promises to the people and described him as a worthy son of Eket whose administration has left visible developmental footprints across the area.
Tommey highlighted the economic significance of the Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo-Inyang Road, noting that it serves as a critical link connecting communities in Eket, Esit Eket and Mbo Local Government Areas, while also providing access to the historic Urua Udo-Inyang Market.
He further commended the governor for improving the living conditions of residents through strategic and high-quality infrastructure projects and assured him of the continued support of the people of Eket.
In a goodwill message, former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dominic Ukpong, expressed appreciation to Governor Eno for completing the road project, which he said was initiated in September 2021 by the immediate past administration.
Ukpong described the road as one of the most economically viable routes in the area, serving numerous rural communities and facilitating access to the ancient Urua Udo-Inyang Market.
He praised Governor Eno as a visionary and pragmatic leader whose commitment to public welfare transcends political considerations.
According to him, the governor’s resolve to complete inherited projects has strengthened unity, continuity in governance and public confidence in government.
As part of his activities in Eket, Governor Eno also inspected the ongoing Afaha Atai and Iseyiridua Road projects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and improving connectivity across the state.
