By Emma Akpabio
For decades, life on Udoette Street and its adjoining roads in Uyo has been defined by hardship, particularly for students of the University of Uyo residing in the area. What should have been a basic amenity remained a distant dream.
During the rainy season, the situation often worsened, as flooding, muddy stretches, and impassable roads made movement difficult and, at times, unsafe. Economic activities were significantly disrupted, with businesses forced to shut down whenever heavy rains occurred. A once-thriving market along Udoekong Street, located a short distance from Udoette, frequently ground to a halt under such conditions.
Frustration mounted over time, prompting residents and students to turn radio platforms into channels for daily appeals for government intervention. “There was hardly a day without complaints on air,” recalled Mr. Ubong Udo, a resident. “We just wanted the government to hear us.”
Relief came with the intervention of Governor Umo Eno, who recently approved the construction of Udoette Street under the “Operation Zero Potholes” initiative within the capital city. The project also includes the rehabilitation of Ikpa road, spanning from Science Park Junction to the University of Uyo main gate.
Construction activities have now commenced, with Amitec Construction Company fully mobilized to site. According to the Project Manager from Amitec, Engr. Emmanuel Assibong, the road project covers approximately 3.1km, extending from Science Park Junction through Udoette street to School Road.
“While the stretch from Science Park Junction to the University of Uyo main gate will undergo rehabilitation and resurfacing, Udoette Street requires full construction, including proper drainage systems. While are almost done cutting all failed portions on Ikpa road, we have commenced constructing drains on Udoette. Assibong explained. He further noted that the project incorporates an additional 1km link connecting Atia Mkpat to Ekpene Ntan from Ikpa Road.
For many residents and students, the development represents more than infrastructure, it is a long-awaited response to years of neglect.
“We have suffered for years, especially during the rainy season,” said Nnamso Johnson, a student. “Now, seeing the work commence gives us real hope that our story is changing.”
Similarly, another resident, Ubong Udofa, expressed optimism, drawing parallels with the transformation of Urua Ekpa Road, which was once largely deserted. “We saw what happened at Urua Ekpa. Today, it is a beautiful and motorable road. We believe ours will soon be the same,” he said.
As construction progresses, Udoette Street is steadily shedding its long history of neglect and moving towards a future defined by improved accessibility, economic activity, and enhanced quality of life, an outcome residents say underscores a responsive and people-focused government.
