Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commissioned two road projects spanning 4.8 kilometres in Eket Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to completing viable projects inherited from previous governments while expanding infrastructure to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life of residents.
The projects commissioned are the 2.4-kilometre Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo Inyang Road and the 2.4-kilometre internal road network in Mkpok Estate Phases One and Two.
The commissioning forms part of the state government’s ongoing infrastructure drive under the ARISE Agenda, which prioritises road construction, rural connectivity and the completion of abandoned or inherited projects considered critical to economic development and public welfare.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremonies, Governor Eno said his administration remains focused on delivering people-oriented projects that enhance socio-economic activities and improve the living conditions of residents across the state.
He explained that the Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo Inyang Road was inherited from a previous administration but was completed by his government because of its strategic economic importance to Eket and adjoining communities.
The governor disclosed that his administration is currently executing about 38 kilometres of roads at different stages of completion across Eket Local Government Area and announced plans to embark on an additional 12 kilometres of roads, bringing the total length of road projects in the area to 50 kilometres.
Governor Eno described the Mkpok Estate internal road network as a project of personal significance, noting that he had lived and conducted business in the area for several years. He expressed confidence that the completed roads would improve accessibility, ease movement and enhance economic activities within the estate.
He also called on youths in the area to safeguard public infrastructure from vandalism and assured residents that his administration would complete other ongoing projects in Eket, including the State Football Academy.
Providing an overview of the projects, the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, said the roads were constructed with adequate drainage facilities to ensure durability and effective flood management.
He commended Governor Eno for sustaining investments in infrastructure development and improving road connectivity across urban and rural communities in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Eket, the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Akaninyene Tommey, expressed appreciation to the governor for what he described as impactful development projects executed across the council area.
He noted that the Ikot Akpa Ikpo–Urua Udo Inyang Road serves as a vital link to several neighbouring communities and provides easier access to the Urua Udo Inyang Market, thereby boosting commercial activities and easing transportation.
As part of his visit to Eket, Governor Eno also inspected the ongoing Afaha Atai and Iseyiridua road projects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to completing critical infrastructure projects across the state.
