Council chairman for Etung local government area in Cross River State, Henry Anom, has commissioned speed boats worth millions of naira to ease the transportation challenges the southern part of the local government faces.
According to Anom, the speed boats will improve mobility and reduce the burden shouldered by riverine dwellers in the LGA.
The council chairman, who commissioned the speed boats at the water axis of the local government area, stated that the speed boats he is commissioning are part of fulfilling his campaign promise to the people.
“A few months ago, we were on the campaign trail, moving from community to community, seeking the support of our people. Today, by God’s Grace, we are delivering on the mandate they gave us,” he stated.
The council chairman averred that the intervention in the transportation problem directly results from Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s compassionate leadership. He described him as a true democrat and champion of grassroots development.
“This is the season of sweetness, as exemplified by our Governor, the ‘Sweet Prince’ himself,” he said. “His Excellency listened to our cries and approved the procurement of these boats to support our riverine communities,” he maintained.
The council chairman maintained that the Initiative is not just about transportation but a deliberate attempt to ease residents’ financial burden of travel and enhance connectivity among isolated communities.
Anom recalled that the administration had procured five minibuses for inter-town movement, to reduce the impact of high transport costs on the people.
“In the same spirit, we are commissioning these boats to operate in riverine settlements like Abijang, Iso-bendeghe, and Itaka.
The cost of travel will be significantly reduced to N1,000 for Abijang and Nsofang/Mkpot and N2,000 for Itaka—far lower than the prevailing market rates.
“These boats are purchased by the government, meant strictly for the service of the people, without interference from any union or group,” Anom stated.
