The Akwa Ibom State Government has invested N208.16 billion in both newly initiated and inherited infrastructure projects as of October 18, 2024, according to Professor Eno Ibanga, Commissioner for Works and Fire Service.
In a press update on Sunday, Professor Ibanga emphasised Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to infrastructural development, stating that this expenditure is part of a strategic effort to enhance and consolidate the state’s infrastructure.
Commitment to Infrastructure Development
“Since Governor Umo Eno took office on May 29, 2023, significant strides have been made in advancing infrastructure projects, both inherited and newly initiated under the ARISE Agenda,” Ibanga stated.
He detailed that N47.93 billion has been allocated to 36 inherited Federal Government Projects Completion (FGPC) projects, while N4.04 billion has been spent on 51 emergency intervention projects inherited from the previous administration, totalling N51.96 billion for inherited projects.
In addition, the commissioner highlighted the initiation of 61 new projects under the ARISE Agenda, with several already completed, including the Akpan Andem Market Amphitheatre, Christmas Village Arena, Atiku Abubakar underground tunnel, and Goretti Secondary School Road. A total of N151.66 billion has been invested in 50 ARISE Agenda projects, with an additional N4.54 billion directed towards 11 emergency intervention projects.
“In total, the current administration has allocated N156.20 billion for ARISE Agenda projects. When combined with inherited projects, this brings the total expenditure to N208.16 billion,” Ibanga confirmed.
Focus on Completion and Challenges
The commissioner reassured the public of the government’s commitment to completing all road projects inherited from past administrations as well as those initiated by the current administration, stressing that contractors will be urged to meet deadlines as the rainy season comes to an end.
Addressing the delayed Tabernacle Road project, Ibanga attributed the setbacks to deep excavation work hindered by heavy rainfall. “The excavation, which requires a depth of at least 11 meters, was affected by persistent rains this year. Had contractors proceeded, it could have led to accidents or subpar work,” he explained.
Ibanga also noted the damage caused to intra-city roads by heavy-duty trucks using routes not designed for them, particularly affecting Ikpa Road and Uyo Village Road. In response, the government has already awarded contracts for the reconstruction of these roads, extending to Udoette Street.
Upcoming Project Inaugurations
The commissioner concluded by announcing that Governor Umo Eno will soon inaugurate several key projects, including the 6.97km Ukpana-Akpabom-Ikwe Road with a 30-meter span bridge in ONNA and Mkpat Enin Local Government Areas, as well as the 2.45km internal roads at Block G, Anua Ifa Ikot Okpon Housing Estate in Uyo.
“Recognising the importance of road and infrastructure to the ARISE Agenda, we will continue to make strategic investments that align with our state’s short, medium, and long-term development goals,” Ibanga stated.
