By Abasi Ita
Residents of Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State have expressed renewed optimism following the commencement of Phase One of the Boki East–West Road by the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
The project involves the construction of a 17 kilometre stretch designed to improve connectivity between rural and urban communities in Boki and stimulate local economic activities. The road starts from Onitcha Farm Roundabout and terminates at Kataba Junction along the Ikom–Obudu Road.
For several years, the deplorable condition of the road had hindered agricultural productivity and commercial activities, making movement difficult for farmers, traders and other road users.
At the inauguration ceremony, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described the project as a critical infrastructure intervention and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to delivering quality road networks across Boki Local Government Area.
Odey assured residents that the project would be completed within a short timeframe, adding that the governor was determined to return to Boki to commission the road upon completion.
He noted that the size and economic significance of Boki justified the level of investment, assuring the people that the present administration remains committed to fulfilling its campaign promises.
In a goodwill message, the Member representing Boki–Ikom Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Abang, described the commencement of the road project as a historic milestone for the people of Boki. He commended Governor Otu for translating promises into action, noting that the East–West Road would improve mobility, strengthen agricultural value chains and stimulate economic growth across the constituency.
Abang assured residents of his continued collaboration with the state government to attract more federal and state interventions to Boki and Ikom communities, urging them to support the contractors and maintain a peaceful environment to ensure timely completion of the project.
The Chairman of Boki Local Government Council, Hon. Mrs Eti-Eka Beatrice Nyiam, said the road would enhance agricultural activities, improve access to markets and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
She added that beyond its economic benefits, the road would promote unity and strengthen cooperation among communities within the local government area.
Also speaking, the member representing Boki Two State Constituency, Dr Hilary Bisong, praised Governor Otu for what he described as a major investment in the development of Boki. He disclosed that the 17 kilometre road project is estimated to cost close to N10 billion.
Bisong further appealed to the state government to prioritise Boki in future road projects, particularly under the proposed 2026 budget.
The ceremony attracted a large turnout of youths, women, traditional rulers and political leaders, who applauded the state government for initiating the project. The Boki East–West Road is the first major road project inaugurated by Governor Otu in the area since he assumed office on May 29, 2023.
In separate interviews, community and communication leaders commended the governor for the bold initiative, noting that the road would accelerate economic growth, boost agricultural investment and enhance commercial activities across Boki Local Government Area.