Abia and Akwa Ibom Join Forces for Road Rehabilitation
Abia and Akwa Ibom State governments have announced a new partnership focused on restoring critical roadways connecting the two states. Abia Governor Alex Otti visited Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno to offer condolences following First Lady Patience Eno’s passing. During the visit, Governor Otti confirmed Abia’s commitment to collaborative road development. He assured Governor Eno that Abia would support efforts to improve regional accessibility. This partnership aims to enhance road access and promote economic growth in both states.
Governors Highlight Economic Significance of Link Roads
Governor Otti emphasised the need for effective road networks to benefit citizens’ socioeconomic interests in both states. He highlighted the significance of these routes, especially the Ikot Ekpene-Aba link. This road serves as a vital pathway for regional trade and community connectivity. “We will work collaboratively to fix the roads linking our states for the socioeconomic benefit of our citizens,” he said.
Akwa Ibom Governor Echoes Call for Swift Action
Governor Eno expressed his willingness to collaborate on key road projects and additionally urged federal intervention for the Ikot Ekpene-Aba road. He stated, “We are ready to collaborate on roads that serve our people.” Moreover, Eno emphasised that a unified effort would significantly accelerate the project’s completion.
Focus on Ikot Ekpene-Aba Road Project
The 36.825-kilometre Ikot Ekpene-Aba road is a key focus in this partnership, yet remains only 15.87% complete. A federal contract from 2019 has not yielded significant progress. Governor Eno underscored the road’s importance, especially for Aba as a major commercial hub. He reaffirmed his commitment to achieving smoother travel between the states.
A Regional Vision for Enhanced Accessibility
Governor Eno emphasised that Aba’s role as a central trade centre for both states makes road improvements critical. He stated, “We will take necessary actions to ensure smoother access to and from Aba,” highlighting benefits for traders and local economies.
Continued Collaboration for Regional Development
The joint initiative, furthermore, reflects a broader vision to bolster infrastructure in Abia and Akwa Ibom States. Additionally, the governors committed to ongoing discussions and actions to advance road projects. By doing so, they aim to strengthen economic activities across both states. Ultimately, this partnership represents a shared dedication to sustainable regional development and accessible transportation.
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