One the newly commissioned roads in Calabar South LGA.
By Anietie Akpan
After 21 Years of neglect, communities in Calabar South Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State have benefited from a massive road network projects.
A release from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nsa Gill, said the newly commissioned road is expected to enhance mobility, improve sanitation through proper drainage, and unlock economic activity for residents in Calabar South.
It was jubilation and excitement all the way as Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, on Wednesday, commissioned a 2.8 km road network connecting Etinyin-Abasi, Otomo Street, Uwanse, and Atamunu communities in Calabar South LGA.
The newly completed network of roads was in a state of disrepair, with deep gullies that made the communities impassable and inaccessible for over two decades. It is now fully tarred, with a drainage system, bringing much-needed relief to residents and businesses in the area.
Thousands of people lined the streets to witness their dream come true and one of the residents in Etinyin-Abasi, Mr. Ekpo Asuquo said, “this Governor is packaged by God and sent to us. For over 20 years we have been suffering but today we can drive this road with ease.
“Before now Keke and buses will not enter this our street because of this bad condition but now the story different because of our sweet prince the governor”.
Speaking on behalf of the communities during the commissioning, the Clan Head of Efut Uwanse Clan, Calabar South, Muri Francis Effa Bassey thanked the Governor for restoring access to a corridor that was previously impassable.
Gov. Bassey Otu doing the commissioning of the roads while others assist.
“May God bless Governor Otu. This road was so bad that even people who trekked found it difficult to pass. But today, we have a solid road with drainage; this will open up economic opportunities and ease trade in this part of Calabar South. We are truly grateful,” the chief said.
This effort is seen by many as yet another demonstration of his administration’s commitment to achieving the People First mantra,
Addressing the members of the communities, Governor Otu expressed deep satisfaction with the completion of the project, noting that the road had been abandoned for 21 years.
“When we say we will do something, that is exactly what we will do. For 21 years, this road was left abandoned, but today it is fully motorable. This is the spirit of the People First agenda; we are here to fix what others left behind,” the Governor said.
On his part, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Ankpo, commended the Governor for his relentless push toward improving road infrastructure across the state.
“Your Excellency, thank you for your continued support and oversight. You are always on our neck, pushing us to ensure roads like this are delivered efficiently and on time,” Ankpo noted.
Mr. Michael Asuquo of Faith Plant Nigeria Limited, the contractor in charge of the project, expressed appreciation to the state government for entrusting the firm with the job and pledged continued delivery of high-quality projects.
