Residents of communities in Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State are set to have easier access to markets, schools and other social amenities following the commissioning of the 3.09-kilometre Ikot Essien–Ikot Uyo Road by Governor Umo Eno’s administration.
The road, commissioned on Saturday as part of activities marking the state’s anniversary, was described by officials and community leaders as an intervention aimed at easing the transportation difficulties that had affected communities along the route.
Representing Governor Eno at the ceremony, former Uyo Senatorial District Senator Bassey Albert said the project demonstrated the administration’s approach of extending infrastructure beyond major urban centres to communities in the hinterland.
Albert said the road would improve the movement of agricultural produce to markets and give residents easier access to essential social services, adding that infrastructure in rural communities was important to expanding economic opportunities and reducing the challenges associated with poor connectivity.
“The road will provide communities in the hinterland with improved access to markets and social amenities, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, and give rural residents a greater sense of belonging,” Albert said.
The Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga, said the project was designed as a single carriageway measuring 3.09 kilometres, with a width of 3.7 metres, alongside pavement and drainage infrastructure.
Ibanga said the intervention was undertaken in response to the prolonged difficulties faced by residents using the route, adding that the road was intended to restore access and improve transportation within the area.
Chairman of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, Anthony Nyong, commended the state government for delivering the project, saying it would make movement safer and easier for motorists, schoolchildren and residents in the affected communities.
Other speakers, including Judges Nsemeke Daniel, MC Akpan, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs Princess Emem Ibanga, the member representing Nsit Atai Constituency in the state House of Assembly, Aniefiok Attah, the member representing Uyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mark Esset, and the Paramount Ruler, HRM Edidem Peter Okon Effiong, also commended the intervention.
They said improved road access would strengthen economic activities and connections among communities, while expressing support for the administration.
The commissioning attracted community leaders, traditional rulers, political stakeholders and residents, who witnessed the formal opening of the road to traffic.
