The Minister of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has commissioned the 15.13km Ikot Esu–Otomo–Azumini Road and 1.53km internal roads in Ikot Udom, Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking at the event, Governor Umo Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing people-centred projects regardless of political affiliations, describing governance as a continuum.
“Government, I’ve always said, is a continuum. It doesn’t matter who started a project. What is important is to finish it for the common good of all,” he said.
The Governor, who commended the Nigerian Government for creating an enabling environment, warned contractors against delays in other ongoing road projects, giving a three-month deadline for delivery.
“If in three months, that road doesn’t gain traction, I will terminate that contract. And if there is any money owed, we will pursue it up to EFCC. We are here to work for our people, no matter whose ox is gored,” he warned.
Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the road would boost the economic viability of the agrarian communities in Ika Local Government.
“By providing the people indulging in farm work the means to evacuate their produce to the urban city, accessing their farms will be very easy. It will really affect the lifestyle of the people of this community,” he said.
Ekpo commended Governor Eno for inclusive governance, recalling that the Governor intervened in his constituency even before he joined the ruling party.
Performing the commissioning, Wike praised the Governor’s leadership and commitment to unity.
“What I have seen today is reality, what we call development. Your Governor has shown the love he has for the people of Akwa Ibom State. Unity brings about development,” Wike said.
He further lauded the Governor for avoiding debts in project delivery.
“15 kilometres is not 15 metres. This is a major achievement. And the Governor has said he is not borrowing, not leaving debt. That is leadership,” he explained.
The State Commissioner for Works, Prof Eno Ibanga, and Chairman of Ika Local Government Area, Utibe Nwoko, also commended the Governor.
“This road is more than asphalt. It is a lifeline that links our farmers to markets, our children to schools, our people to healthcare and commerce,” Nwoko said.
Political leader Uwemedimo Nwoko and community representatives described the project as a symbol of inclusive governance, while contractors pledged continued support for the state’s development drive.
The ceremony was attended by political leaders, community members, and stakeholders, who described the road as a gateway to commerce and social integration in Akwa Ibom State.
PIAK