Akwa Ibom council to construct roads in 12 wards

The Ikot Abasi local government council of Akwa Ibom State has concluded arrangements to construct road projects across the 12 wards to attract development and to expand the existing ones to discourage capital flight of resources from the oil-rich area.

The council chairman, Ime Williams Essien, dropped the hint during a New Year interaction with traditional rulers in the area, saying, there is a need to fast-track the pace of development.

Essien explained that the projects have been captured in the 2025 budget estimate, which has already been passed into law by the legislative council of the local government.

He also disclosed that his administration will commence monthly stipends for certificated village heads, to complement the state government offer to mitigate the effects of economic hardship.

Chairman stated that the visit was aimed at appreciating them for their prayers, blessings, and support, which has translated to his emergence as the local council boss.

Earlier, the Paramount Ruler of the council, Edidem Dr. U.J Ntuk Obom prayed for the chairman, describing him as the leader God sent to redeem the wealth and image of Ikot Abasi, and to support the traditional Rulers council.

Also speaking, the clan head of Ikpa Nnung Assang, Etebom (Engr.) Celestine Udia and, his Edemaya counterpart, Aniema Eshiet, that of Ukpum Ete, Nsikan Etuk Udom, and the clan head elect for Ikpa Ibekwe clan, Obong Akpan Akpan Inyang appreciated the kind gesture to them.

They lauded the performance of the local government chairman in just three months and expressed optimism that he will set a pace in development, with particular reference to road grading and water projects, adding that the council has not had it so good in the past two decades.