In a bold demonstration of his commitment to rural transformation and infrastructural renewal under the ARISE Agenda, Governor Umo Eno has completed and commissioned the 15km Ikot Esu–Otomo–Azumini Road in Ika Local Government Area.
The Governor also constructed internal roads in Ikot Udom . hometown of the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Obong Ekperikpe Ekpo , further opening up rural communities to economic opportunities.
Governor Eno explained that the project was inspired by his first-hand experience of the road’s poor condition during the 2023 campaigns. Despite political differences at the time, he assured Obong Ekpo that his community would not be left behind. “You are who you are, regardless of where you are. For me, development is not about political party; it is about the common good of the people. I promised the Minister that I could not allow his hometown road to remain in this condition, and today, we have fulfilled that promise. Government is a continuum; what matters is not who started a project, but that it is completed for the benefit of the people,” he declared.
The Governor described the road as proof of his administration’s commitment to continuity and regional cooperation, pledging more projects to transform rural communities across the state. He also reiterated Akwa Ibom’s support for President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, commending the Federal Government for stabilising the economy and supporting states financially without adding to their debt burden. In a firm message to contractors, he issued a three-month ultimatum to those handling the 16km Mbiabong–Atan–Ikon–Inya–Ekpeyong Utuk Road project, warning that failure to show significant progress would lead to termination of their contracts.
Performing the commissioning, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),Nyesom Wike, praised Governor Eno’s strides, urging Akwa Ibom people to rally behind him. “I have always associated myself with leaders who mean well for their people. Governor Eno has shown genuine love for Akwa Ibom. What I’m seeing today is not about 3D images — it is the reality of development,” Wike said. He also commended the Governor for working closely with Senate President Akpabio, noting that unity between leaders attracts Federal presence and accelerates development.
Chairman of Ika Local Government, Hon. Utibe Nwoko, described the project as the most economically viable road in the area, linking Akwa Ibom to Abia, Bayelsa, and Rivers States. Similarly, former Attorney General and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Uwemedimo Nwoko, applauded the even spread of road projects, assuring the Governor of Ika people’s continued support beyond 2027.
