Governor Umo Eno Flags Off Construction of More Rural Roads

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially flagged off the construction of a 2.1km Ukpong Street and a 2.1km Effiong Essang Street, accompanied by an 800m discharge drain in Oron Local Government Area of the state. He also provided assurances of ensuring continuity in the execution of projects initiated by the immediate past administration.

Governor Eno addressed the jubilant crowd of Oron residents who came out in large numbers to celebrate the commencement of the Ukpong and Effiong Essang Streets projects along Mary Hanney Road, Eyoabasi axis of the Oron Community.

He emphasized that he was in Oron to fulfill his campaign promise of continuing projects initiated by the previous administration. He reaffirmed his commitment to providing adequate funding and logistical support for the completion of the road projects, explaining his decision to mobilize the contractors to the site to deliver democratic dividends to the people.

Governor Eno reiterated his administration's determination to address the needs of the people by bringing development to the grassroots. He pointedly stated his preference for project inaugurations over flag-offs, mentioning that he would delegate members of the State Executive Council to flag off other projects planned for execution across the state. He assured that the projects would be completed by February of the following year.

"During our campaigns, we promised to continue the projects initiated by the previous government. Today, I am pleased to see that we are fulfilling that promise."

"My predecessor approved this road project. We could have said we didn't approve it or couldn't find it, but that's not the promise we made."

"I assured that we would complete this project, and today, we are flagging off a project that was approved by funding it and ensuring the contractor gets to the site. This will allow the people of this community to fully benefit from democracy. That's why we're back here today."

"This project will be well-funded, and we'll return for the commissioning. The contractor has assured us of completion in January. However, I'm giving you until February."

"I want to assure you that there's much more to do in Akwa Ibom, and we'll keep striving to meet the needs of our people in rural communities," he stated.

Regarding the request by the Youth President, Comrade Bright Afahaakan, for assistance to the Police Authorities with operational vehicles, he emphatically expressed that he would address the request. He encouraged the youths to partner with the police and other security agencies for security maintenance, emphasizing that security concerns are everyone's responsibility.

"I heard the Youth President talking about vehicles and such, but it's not only the government that can donate vehicles to the Police."

“There are other individuals and voluntary organizations like the Police Committee Relationship that can do that. Mobilize and approach them. Let them do their best, and the government will provide full support."

"These Police officers in our community are helping us. I appreciate that you're speaking for them, but let's go beyond words. I'd like to thank the Area Commander and the DPO for using your vehicles. I know you're doing a great job, and soon, with the grace of God, we'll respond to the youth leader's request."

In her goodwill message, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, thanked Governor Eno for having the Oro people's interests at heart. She expressed pride in identifying with a Governor who keeps his word and commended him for an all-inclusive administration.

She explained that the Governor demonstrated this by prioritizing the Oro nation, making it one of the earliest places his government touched. She assured the people of intervention in the twelve roads within the Oron nation and the Nsit Atai-Oron road that were brought before him.

Reviewing the project, the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Professor Eno Ibanga, mentioned that the two roads flagged off were of great significance to Oron people. They connect the 100 units Federal Government Housing Estate, Maritime Academy, and many residential areas of Oron.

He noted that the two roads, once completed, would be 8 meters wide with drains throughout their length. Given the area's vulnerability to erosion, the road would be equipped with an 800-meter outfall drain. He pledged the ministry's commitment to ensuring that the project adheres to standard specifications.

The Member representing Oron Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Martins Esin, expressed immense gratitude for the road projects. He described Governor Umo Eno's inclusivity of Oron people in his administration as unprecedented. He emphasized that the Governor had chosen, of his own volition, to positively impact the lives of people in the Constituency.

The President of Oron Union, Bishop Etim Ante, Chairman of Oron Local Government Area, Hon. Effiong Ubokulo, Youth Leader of Eyoabasi community, Mr. Bright Afahakan, all hailed the roads as significant. They conveyed the gratitude of the Oron people to the governor for his intervention.