By Sylvia Akpan, Government House Correspondent
Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, has flagged off the construction of a 10-kilometer Ndok Junction-Mbube-Okubushuyu road in Ogoja Local Government Area.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Ekumtak-Mbube in Ogoja LGA on Saturday, 2nd August, 2024, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described the project as part of his administration’s efforts to open up rural communities, stimulate economic activity, and improve transportation for residents and significantly improve their socioeconomic status.
Hee emphasized that this is the first phase, with subsequent phases extending from Mbube East to Utugwang in Obudu LGA.
He charged the contractor to uphold global best practices in the delivery of the project, stressing the need to prioritize local content by engaging community labour, particularly the youths.
According to him, this will not only fast-track the project but also create jobs, enhance local participation, and improve the socioeconomic wellbeing of residents.
Odey expressed deep appreciation to the people of Ogoja and Cross Riverians for their consistent support for Governor Otu’s administration, reiterating his government’s resolve to ensure that every part of the state is connected by a functional and economically viable road network.
He lauded Otu for fulfilling his campaign promises to the people of Ogoja, even as he pledged the continued support and cooperation of the people toward the success of the administration.
The Commissioner for Works, Hon. Pius Ankpo, in his remark acknowledged the limited resources of the state and noted that the project was being executed in phases to ensure effective resource management. He assured that the Ministry of Works will closely monitor the project to ensure it is completed according to approved specifications.
Ankpo further revealed that over 12 kilometers of road rehabilitation are currently ongoing within Ogoja metropolis, highlighting the Governor’s commitment to inter-community connectivity and rural development.
Traditional rulers and community leaders who spoke on the sidelines of the event praised the government for the visionary leadership and the wide range of development projects being executed across the state. They pledged their continued support and offered prayers for the success of his administration.