Residents and stakeholders in Mkpat Enin and Etinan local government areas of Akwa Ibom State have expressed excitements over what they described as a “relaunch of connectivity and bustling economic life to be ushered in to the rural areas with the completion of the 10.83km Mkpat Enin–Ikot Akpe–Ikot Afang–Ikot Umiang–Mbioto–Efa group of villages’ road project.
The road project, which includes a spur to Ikot Enyienge community and a 30-metre bridge, LEADERSHIP gathered, is “a strategic move to enhance rural connectivity, ease transportation challenges, and unlock economic potential across the benefiting communities.”
The excited rural dwellers bared their minds during an inspection tour of the project by the Governor Umo Eno’s documentation team, led by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso.
“The team visited the project to assess progress and engage directly with residents and stakeholders,” the governor’s Aide explained.
Speaking on the project, the Secretary of Mkpat Enin Council, Aniedi Brown Ekanem, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for bringing impactful development to the area.
“I sincerely thank the governor, who is also an in-law to Mkpat Enin, for this laudable project. Before now, our people faced severe challenges moving along this route. Today, the road is about 90 per cent complete, and we are eagerly awaiting its commissioning,” he said.
Providing insight into the scope of the project, a staff of the contracting firm, Eighteenth Engineering Company International Limited, Mr. Isaac John, highlighted the technical strength and durability embedded in the construction.
“This 10.83-kilometre road stretches from Mkpat Enin through Ikot Akpe, Ikot Afang, Ikot Umiang, and Mbioto, terminating at Efa, with an additional spur to Ikot Enyienge. It features an 8-metre-wide carriageway, a 30-metre bridge, and a comprehensive drainage system designed to ensure longevity and resilience,” he explained.
In a demonstration of bipartisan unity, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chapter chairman in Mkpat Enin, Hon. Isaiah Lawrence, lauded the governor’s performance, emphasising that good governance transcends political affiliations.
“I commend the governor for delivering the true dividends of democracy to our people. What we are witnessing here is impactful governance. Regardless of party lines, we are committed to supporting his second-term bid because progress must not be politicized,” he stated.
Also sharing her experience, Obongawan Uduak Iwok Willie, described the project as life-changing.
“When I got married into this community, there was no road and I was worried about how to cope. Today, I can easily access my farm and the market. God bless the Governor for bringing this road when we needed it most,” she said.
Corroborating her testimony, the group head, Nnung Oku Itina, Ikot Akpan Ese Efa community, Ette Idung Iwok Willie Udo, described the project as a long-awaited breakthrough for the community.
“For over 50 years, we lived without a proper road. When the surveyors first came, many of us doubted it would happen. Today, this project has become a reality. It is beyond what we imagined.
“God bless Governor Umo Eno and may he make other people happy the way he has made me happy over this road,” he said.
Residents across the benefiting communities noted that even before its completion, the road has significantly improved mobility, reduced travel time, and stimulated local economic activities.
They expressed optimism that upon commissioning, the project will further enhance trade, attract investment, and improve the overall standard of living, reinforcing Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to inclusive rural development across Akwa Ibom State.
Measuring 10.83km, with a Spur of 1.93km and with a total length of drain measuring 21,660m, the project , our correspondent recalled, was flagged – off in March 2024, and is expected to be inaugurated in the build -up to the third anniversary of the governor’s first stint in office.
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