In line with his administration’s commitment to ensuring statewide connectivity through viable networks of roads, Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River State governor, weekend, officially flagged off the construction of a 10-kilometre Ndok Junction-Mbube-Okubushuyu road in Ogoja Local Government Area.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Saturday at Ekumtak-Mbube in Ogoja Local Government Area, Otu, represented by Peter Odey, his deputy, 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. He emphasised that this was just the first phase, with subsequent phases extending from Mbube East to Utugwang in Obudu Local Government Area.
He charged the contractor to uphold global best practices in the delivery of the project, stressing the need to prioritise 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.
The deputy governor commended Governor 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.
In his remarks, Pius Ankpo, commissioner for Works, 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 kilometres 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 Governor Otu for his 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.
