The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, inaugurated the newly completed 15.13-kilometre Ikot Esu-Otomo-Azumini Road and 1.53km internal Roads in Ikot Udomo, Ika Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom.

Mr Wike, while inaugurating the road projects in Uyo, commended the state government for investing in critical infrastructure that connects rural communities to economic opportunities.

The minister described the road projects “as a model of people-oriented development”, saying that unity brings development.

He said that road projects such as the Ika–Azumini axis were essential in fostering national unity and driving grassroots development.

“This is the kind of governance Nigeria needs at all levels, leadership that prioritises projects which directly impact the lives of the people.

“When states deliver such infrastructure, the centre must acknowledge and support them,” he said.

He commended Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for completing the road which links Akwa Ibom to Abia.

The minister said the decision to work across political lines showed maturity and leadership anchored on the common good of the people.

“Development does not know party. What we have seen here today is reality. The governor has demonstrated love for his people by completing this road.

In his speech, Mr Eno described the road as a testament to continuity in governance and a model of regional cooperation.

Also speaking, Mr Eno stressed that his administration was determined to finish projects regardless of who initiated them.

“Government is a continuum. What matters is finishing projects for the common good. This road reaffirms our finishing commitment. Development is not about party, it is about the people,” he said.

Mr Eno pledged Akwa Ibom’s support for President Bola Tinubu and the Senate president, Godswill Akpabio, praising the federal government for stabilising the economy and making funds available to states without accruing new debts.

“In Akwa Ibom, we are united across party lines to support the President and the Senate President. We are Akwa Ibom united,” he stated.

The governor issued a three-month ultimatum to contractors handling the 16-kilometre Mbiabong–Atan–Ikon-Inya–Ekpeyong Utuk road project.

He threatened to terminate the contract if the work does not progress as expected.

(NAN)