In fulfilment of his campaign promises to provide basic infrastructure capable of driving economic growth and rural transformation, the senator representing the Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Williams, has inaugurated the construction of the Mkpani Ring Road in the Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Senator Williams said the project forms part of his deliberate efforts to address infrastructure deficits across the senatorial district, add value to rural communities, and improve the living standards of his constituents.

He noted that access roads remain critical to economic growth, particularly for agrarian communities that depend on efficient transport to move farm produce to markets. The Senator assured residents that the Mkpani Ring Road was only one of several projects lined up to drive growth and transform communities across the district.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by community leaders, traditional rulers and residents, marked the official start of the two-kilometre ring road linking the Aduma, Afaben and Ajere communities. The arrival of heavy-duty construction equipment at the project site generated widespread excitement among residents, who described the initiative as timely and impactful.

Residents and stakeholders expressed optimism that the road would ease transport challenges, improve market access for farmers and stimulate urban and commercial development within Mkpani and its surrounding communities.

In separate interviews, traditional rulers, community leaders and political stakeholders commended the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of responsive, people-focused leadership that prioritises grassroots development.

The Mkpani Ring Road is expected to complement the ongoing Mkpani to Agoi Road project, executed by the Cross River State Government, and to serve as a catalyst for broader economic activity in the area. With improved connectivity, the road is projected to boost agricultural productivity, reduce transport costs and support sustainable livelihoods.

Observers noted that the project aligns with Senator Williams’ key campaign commitments to improve rural infrastructure across the Cross River Central Senatorial District.

Other road projects facilitated by the senator include the grading of access roads in Iyamoyong, Okumurutet and Iyamitet in Obubra Local Government Area; the grading of Agba One and Agba Two rural roads in Boki Local Government Area; the rehabilitation of Okundi, Irruan and Wula roads, also in Boki; and the grading of the Abia to Bakassi Road in Etung Local Government Area.