By Nsan Neji
OGOJA (CONVERSEER) – Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has officially flagged off the construction of the 10-kilometre Ndok Junction–Mbube–Okubushuyu road in Ogoja Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to statewide connectivity and rural development.
The flag-off ceremony, which took place on Saturday at Ekumtak-Mbube in Ogoja, was performed on behalf of the governor by his deputy, Peter Odey.
He described the project as a strategic move to open up rural communities, stimulate economic activity, and enhance transportation, ultimately improving residents’ socioeconomic wellbeing.
Odey disclosed that the road project is the first phase of a larger plan that will eventually extend from Mbube East to Utugwang in Obudu Local Government Area.
He urged the contractor to uphold global best practices and prioritise local content by employing community youths to accelerate the project and create jobs.
“The engagement of local labour will fast-track the project while boosting community participation and improving the people’s economic status,” Odey said.
He thanked residents of Ogoja and other Cross Riverians for supporting the Otu-led administration and reiterated the government’s determination to ensure every part of the state is linked by a functional and economically viable road network.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Pius Ankpo, acknowledged the state’s limited resources and explained that the road is being constructed in phases to ensure effective resource management.
He assured that the Ministry of Works will closely monitor the project to guarantee adherence to specifications and timely delivery.
Ankpo revealed that over 12 kilometres of road rehabilitation works are ongoing within Ogoja metropolis, which he said demonstrates the governor’s commitment to inter-community connectivity and rural development.
Traditional rulers and community leaders at the ceremony hailed Governor Otu for his developmental drive and pledged their continued support for his administration. They also offered prayers for the success of his government.
