By Emma Akpabio
Residents, motorists, and key stakeholders in Obot Akara Local Government Area have commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for the ongoing road and bridge projects in the area, describing them as timely interventions that have brought long-awaited relief and renewed hope to rural communities.
Across Obot Akara, over 20 kilometres of road construction are at advanced stages of completion, alongside three major bridge projects, underscoring the state government’s deliberate effort to open up previously underserved communities and enhance rural connectivity.
Prominent among these interventions is the 11.71-kilometre internal road network executed by a reputable indigenous company, Tenth Construction, which has recorded significant progress and is already improving access to communities such as Usaka Annang, Nto Ekpe, Abiakpo, Nto Ekpu Ikot, Nko, and adjoining areas. The road has begun to ease movement, reduce travel time, and stimulate socio-economic activities within the axis.
Similarly, construction work on the over 7-kilometre Mbiaso – Ikot Ukpong- Nto Edino Road, handled by Senyang Engineering, has advanced considerably, with preparatory activities ongoing for the piling of the Mbiaso Bridge.
Residents said the pace and quality of work reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development and have reassured them of a visible government presence in the area.
During a recent inspection tour by the Government House Research and Documentation Team, led by Dr. Essien Ndueso, motorists, commuters, and community leaders applauded the standard of construction and speed of execution by the firm handling the project, Tenth Construction.
They noted that improved connectivity is already strengthening social interactions and boosting economic exchanges between Akwa Ibom State and neighbouring Abia State.
Reacting to the ongoing transformation, the Village Head of Usaka Annang, Chief Aniekan Williamson Otuekong, praised Governor Eno for what he described as his uncommon love and attention to Obot Akara, recalling years of neglect suffered by the community.
“We in Usaka Annang were completely forgotten from the military era through the beginning of civilian rule in 1999. No government remembered us until Governor Eno came. The standard of roads constructed here is comparable to what is found in major cities like Uyo, Lagos, and Abuja. The bridge and roads are progressing rapidly and are solidly built to last. May God bless Governor Umo Eno,” Chief Otuekong said.
Students of Methodist Secondary School, Nto Ndang, who also spoke during the tour, narrated the difficulties they previously faced along the Nto Ekpu Ikot–Nko road axis and expressed gratitude to the Governor for the intervention, offering prayers for the continued success of his administration.
Other residents interviewed by the press team recalled how dilapidated roads and failed crossings once defined daily life in the area; restricting movement, delaying the evacuation of farm produce, and exposing families to severe hardship, particularly during the rainy season. They noted that those experiences are gradually giving way to renewed optimism as visible development takes root.
Overall, the ongoing road and bridge projects in Obot Akara are significantly easing transportation challenges, revitalising local economic activities, and restoring public confidence in governance. Residents say the projects stand as clear evidence of Governor Umo Eno’s people-centred leadership and commitment to inclusive and sustainable development across Akwa Ibom State.
Beyond the construction of 10 compassionate homes, 2 model primary schools in the area, Governor Eno’s impact in Obot Akara was further highlighted within his first in office, when he completed and commissioned the Nto Ide–Ikot Amba Bridge, complemented by over 800 metres approach road, reaffirming the administration’s sustained investment in infrastructure development.
