By Abasi Ita
The Member representing Boki Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Victor Abang, has hailed Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for the commencement of the 17 kilometre Boki East West Road, describing the project as a major driver of development and economic growth in Boki Local Government Area.
Hon Abang, reacting to the development, said the flag off of Phase One of the road project reflects the governor’s determination to address long standing infrastructural challenges in the area.
The road, which runs from Onitcha Farm Roundabout to Kataba Junction along the Ikom Obudu Road, is expected to significantly improve connectivity between rural and urban communities and unlock new economic opportunities across Boki.
According to the federal lawmaker, the deplorable condition of the East West Road in the past had restricted the movement of farmers, traders and other road users, thereby affecting agricultural productivity and commercial activities.
He described the commencement of construction as a historic milestone, stressing that the project would enhance mobility, strengthen agricultural value chains and stimulate sustainable economic growth within the constituency.
Hon Abang praised Governor Otu for translating campaign promises into concrete action, adding that the impact of the road project would be felt by the people of Boki for generations.
He assured constituents of his continued collaboration with the state government to attract more federal and state interventions to Boki and Ikom communities, while urging residents to support the contractors and maintain a peaceful environment to ensure the timely completion of the project.
Earlier, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey, described the road as a critical infrastructure intervention aimed at opening up Boki for economic revival. He assured residents that the project would be completed within a short period and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering quality road networks across the state.
The Chairman of Boki Local Government Council, Mrs Beatrice Nyiam, said the road would improve access to markets, boost agricultural activities and create employment opportunities, particularly for youths, while also strengthening unity among communities.
Also speaking, the member representing Boki Two State Constituency, Dr Hilary Bisong, described the project as a major investment in the development of Boki and disclosed that the 17 kilometre road is estimated to cost close to N10 billion.
The flag off ceremony attracted a large turnout of youths, women, traditional rulers and political leaders, who expressed appreciation to the state government for initiating what many described as the first major road project in Boki since Governor Otu assumed office on May 29, 2023.