The Akwa Ibom State Government has commissioned a 2.07-kilometre road in Urua Ekpa, Itu Local Government Area, along with a 1.4-kilometre underground discharge drainage system. This project was part of the 39th anniversary celebrations of the state's creation. The government aims to reposition Itu as a major gateway and stimulate economic activities through this initiative. The road and drainage system are expected to improve connectivity, enhance access, and support economic growth in the area.
The Urua Ekpa Road has undergone significant transformation from its previous state of disrepair and perennial flooding. Earlier reports documented the displacement of hundreds of residents and the village head after floodwaters overwhelmed the area in 2021. The floodwaters forced the Village Head of Ikot Obio Atai, Ete Idung Mkpong Okon Mkpong, to abandon his palace and relocate. The affected area extended into adjoining streets, including Afaha Oku, Imo, and Udo Usanga.
The deplorable state of the road and slow pace of rehabilitation work were major concerns for residents, business owners, and students living around Urua Ekpa in 2023. The roughly three-kilometre road had suffered years of neglect, and heavy rainfall further complicated construction activities. Despite efforts, the situation remained a recurring subject in reports on flooding in the area, with residents experiencing perennial flooding in 2024.
Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, at the commissioning ceremony, stated that his administration is committed to developing Itu and restoring its strategic position as an important gateway to the state. The Governor recalled the deplorable condition of the road when his administration came into office and said its reconstruction was expected to help restore economic activities and improve the livelihoods of residents.
The Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, highlighted that the administration had transformed what was previously a deplorable and impassable road into infrastructure designed to provide lasting access to the communities. The project addressed not only the road but also the drainage challenge that had contributed to the area's longstanding flooding problems.
The Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, Hon. Ubong Nkutt, described the road as an investment that would give residents a new lease of life, stressing its importance to the movement of people and goods. He noted that staff and students of the University of Uyo would benefit from the improved access to the institution's Town Campus, which is located close to the affected communities.
Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Kufre Edidem, an indigene of Ikot Obio Atai, recalled his previous efforts to secure government intervention in the flood-prone community. He facilitated inspections of the affected area by officials of the state Ministries of Environment and Works and forwarded the community's complaints to the state government. Edidem said the completion of the road and drainage infrastructure was particularly significant, as it addressed a problem that had affected residents, businesses, and students for years.
Key points
- The Akwa Ibom State Government has completed a 2.07-kilometre road with a 1.4-kilometre underground drainage system in Urua Ekpa to address flooding and improve access.
- The project aims to reposition Itu as a major gateway and stimulate economic activities in the area.
- The road and drainage system are expected to enhance access to the University of Uyo Town Campus and support economic growth.
