By Abigail Philip David
The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, has praised the federal government for restarting work on the long-abandoned 23-kilometre Ikom-Etomi-Agbokim road in Cross River State. The project, which was initiated in 2012, had been left uncompleted for over a decade.
Speaking on Thursday, Enoh, an indigene of the senatorial district, emphasized the road’s significance in promoting tourism and agriculture in the region.
He noted that the project would improve access to Agbokim Waterfalls, a major tourist attraction, and connect four cocoa estates established during the late Michael Okpara’s administration, boosting economic activity in the area.
“In 2012, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba and I, in our respective capacities as Senate Leader and Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, secured the award of this project by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC),” Enoh stated.
He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for prioritizing the road, saying, “This renewal of work marks a turning point. It reflects the government’s commitment to fostering tourism, strengthening local economies, and driving sustainable development in Cross River State.”
Enoh also applauded NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for making the project a priority. He urged residents to support contractors to ensure the work is completed on schedule.
Dr. Ajuwa Daniel, the NDDC State Director, also addressed stakeholders, urging contractors Faith Plant Services and Rhema Vision to adhere to project specifications. He appealed to community members to protect construction equipment and cooperate fully with the contractors.
“If we receive reports of interference from traditional leaders or youth groups demanding compensation, the project will be terminated and reassigned to more cooperative communities,” Daniel warned.
He further encouraged local support, saying, “Safeguard the equipment and, where possible, assist the workers by providing meals. Our goal is to complete this road within one year. If the contractors meet this target, I will ensure prompt processing of their payments.”
