Economic activities in coastal communities of Akwa Ibom are likely to witness a boost with the completion of 9.5km of road and a modern jetty in Onna local government area of the state.
The 9.5km road network leading to a modern jetty facility in Onna local government area at Ikot Ebidang/Ikot Ebekpo is seen as a project of great economic importance to the state as it would connect Akwa Ibom through the waterways to other countries for commerce.
According to a statement made available to the media, the project opens up the area economically as the jetty would allow easy movement of farm produce and goods since it empties into the Atlantic Ocean and will serve not just the area but the entire state.
A community leader, Ben Udobia, lauded indigenous contractors who handled the project saying the it would improve their capacity when given more projects.
Not only have they been given the opportunity to be active players in projects execution in the state, they have also been made to play critical roles, hitherto reserved for multi national construction firms, he said.
Udobia also lauded the Governor for giving support to the local contractors and the quality of projects being executed.
The state government has recently completed a 21-storey building meant to attract major oil companies to the state and is in the process of completing a modern worship centre, all in Uyo, the state capital.
“He has done well in terms of infrastructure, local contractors are not left out, we are doing well in road construction. He has also invested in this project. Where we are standing was a high sea, we had to fill it to this level, the road has pavements, construction is almost completed just painting is left.” Udobia explained.
The Project Manager, Victor Ekaette, explained in technical details that the construction was done with quality materials that can stand the test of time.
“The dimension is 20-24 meter solid resting on a 150mm stone and final Asphalt of 50mm with drainages on all sides, we did a lot of filling using a dredger,” Ekaette said.
Imaobong Akaninyene, an indigene of the community, thanked the governor for constructing the jetty and Ikot Ebekpo-Ikot Ebidang road, stating that the road was in a deplorable condition as it was totally impassable.
She also said that the contractor had cordial relationship with the indigenes of the community who assisted the construction company during the course of the project.
Eno Ibanga, commissioner for works and fire service, who was on a routine tour of projects, also praised the contractors over the quality of delivery.
He also assured the contractor of government’s resolve in release of funds for the speedy completion of jobs around the state.
