Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially commissioned the 9.76-kilometer Ikot Eyo-Edem Idim Okpot-Mbiekene-Nung Obong-Ikot Ntung-East West Road, highlighting his administration’s commitment to the equitable distribution of development projects across the state. During the inauguration, the governor reassured the people of Nsit Ubium that their interests would receive focused attention throughout his tenure.
The newly commissioned road connects the neighboring Local Government Areas of Eket, Esit Eket, and Ibesikpo-Asutan. Governor Eno commended the patience and understanding of the people of Nsit Ubium, acknowledging their support for the administration’s broad-based development approach. He assured them that they would not regret their continued support, as their needs would be given due consideration.
The governor also praised the project contractor, Bulletine Construction Company Nigeria Ltd., for its commitment to delivering the project on time. As part of the company’s corporate social responsibility, Bulletine Construction went beyond the road project by renovating the Ikot Eyo Community School and building a 3-bedroom bungalow for the principal. However, the governor called for appropriate reclamation of a potential gully erosion site, which could jeopardize the longevity of the road.
Governor Eno further promised that roads within the local government area would be prioritized in the 2025 state budget, noting that the construction of these roads would significantly benefit the people. He also shared plans for the dualization of the Nung-Udoe-Afaha Nsit Road, as well as infrastructure development in areas like Afaha Offiong, Itreto, and Nsit Ibom in Nsit Ubium. The governor emphasized that his administration would continue to focus on grassroots development to enhance commerce and improve traffic flow.
In his overview of the project, Professor Eno Ibanga, the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, described the road intervention as a vital solution for several Nsit Ubium communities. He highlighted that the road, which includes a 60-meter bridge and spurs at Luke Avenue, Ikot Mbat, and Ndon Adiana, was completed according to the highest standards and specifications.
Prominent Nsit Ubium stakeholders, including Senator Effiong Bob, the political leader of Uyo Senatorial District; former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke; Woman Leader Dr. Dora Bassey; Paramount Ruler of Ibibio, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk; and the local government chairman, Hon. Alfred Charles, all expressed gratitude for the intervention. They recalled that the road, before its rehabilitation, had become impassable, particularly during the rainy season, making farming and trade extremely difficult. They thanked the governor for his timely intervention, which has brought significant relief to the people.
In his vote of thanks, Chief Faysal Harb, Managing Director of Bulletine Construction Company, expressed his appreciation to the state government for placing their trust in his company. He also thanked the community for their cooperation with the construction team, assuring that Bulletine would continue to meet expectations in future projects.
The commissioning of the Ikot Eyo-Edem Idim Okpot-Mbiekene-Nung Obong-Ikot Ntung-East West Road marks a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing development efforts, particularly for the people of Nsit Ubium.