Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has reaffirmed his dedication to finishing all road projects inherited from previous administrations, as well as those initiated by his own government.
Eno made this statement through the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, during a press conference at the NUJ Press Center in Uyo. He was joined by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ini Ememobong, and Prince Ikim, the chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency.
Since taking office on May 29, 2023, Eno has allocated over N208.16 billion to road and infrastructure development projects. According to Ibanga, N47.93 billion has been spent on 36 projects inherited from the Finance and General Purpose Committee, along with N4.04 billion on 51 emergency intervention projects from the previous administration, totaling N51.96 billion in this category alone. Additionally, N151.96 billion has been invested in 61 projects under the current administration’s ARISE Agenda.
Ibanga stated, “Let’s reiterate the firm and sincere commitment by the administration of Pastor Umo Eno to complete the road infrastructure projects he inherited from previous administrations in Akwa Ibom State as well as the ones initiated by his administration. For both the initiated and inherited projects, this administration has spent an accumulative sum of N208.16 billion as of October 18, 2024.”
Addressing concerns about the slow progress on the Tabernacle road project, the commissioner cited persistent rainfall as a major factor. He assured the public that the project is expected to be commissioned by January 2025, emphasizing that much of the work involves excavation that reaches depths of at least 11 meters.
Ibanga also issued a warning against constructing structures on waterways, drainage systems, and right-of-ways, which could worsen flooding issues in the state. He advised that any additional design requests, such as speed bumps, should be directed to the Ministry of Works to prevent premature damage to road infrastructure.
