Residents of Nsit Atai, Okobo, Oron, and Eket Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State have expressed excitement over Governor Umo Eno’s recent improvements in rural road infrastructure across the state.
Speaking during an inspection visit by some of the Governor’s aides, led by the Senior Special Assistant on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, community members highlighted the economic and social benefits they have experienced since the construction of these roads.
The inspection covered several projects, including the 14.5 km Nsit Atai Okobo Road, the 13.5 km Okopedi Uya Oron Road with a 60-meter bridge, the 2.4 km Ukpong and Effiong Essang Streets, and the 2.4 km Ikot Akpa Ikpo Urua Udoinyang Road in Eket.
Chief Afia Johnson Ubom Ekpenyong, speaking on behalf of the Village Head of Ikot Akpa Ikpo, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for bringing development to the community. He noted that the road project covers four villages in the Okon area of Eket and will improve business activities, especially at the busy Udo Udoinyang Market.
He also assured the Governor of the community’s continued support, including for his second-term ambition, as a way of appreciating the positive impact of the projects.
Similarly, Comrade Afia Jeremiah, a youth leader in Ikot Akpa Ikpo, explained that the 2.4 km road project was started under the previous administration of Deacon Udom Emmanuel in 2021 but has now been completed by Governor Umo Eno.
According to him, “The road has opened up the area for more economic activities. Before now, motorcycles and vehicles could not pass safely. Today, people from neighboring communities in Onna can easily come into Eket to trade, as seen at the Udo Udoinyang Market.”
In Nsit Atai, a community leader from Ikot Asua, Chief Usen, also thanked the Governor for upgrading the Nsit Atai Okopedi Road. He described how difficult it was to access the road before the construction.
“This road was so bad that even bicycles could not pass. Now we have a dual carriageway and a roundabout. Everyone in the community is proud of this administration,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr. Richard Pascal, a resident of Ikot Asua, said he is proud to mention his community anywhere because of the many development projects carried out under Governor Eno.
In his remarks, Dr. Essien Ndueso, alongside the Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Emma Akpabio, and the Special Assistant on Entertainment, Mr. Moses Eskor, recalled that the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah, had earlier announced that over 10 road projects by Governor Eno will be commissioned before May 29, 2026.
Dr. Ndueso emphasized that the Governor is committed to inclusive infrastructure development across the state.
“The Governor has made significant progress in both inherited and new rural road projects. Instead of focusing only on the capital, he has prioritized rural communities, ensuring that development reaches underserved areas. These roads are improving daily life and creating economic opportunities by connecting communities to markets,” he said.
He also noted that the Governor remains committed to the realization of the Ibom Deep Seaport project and expressed confidence that it will soon become a reality. He added that the state’s International Airport is expected to be officially opened next month, marking another major step toward economic growth and global connectivity.
Mr. Akpabio further stated that the Governor has kept his campaign promises by improving the welfare of the people and delivering visible development across the state.
