The Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, has pledged to support the effort to recoup funds spent on federal road projects in Akwa Ibom so as to boost collaboration in developing the country’s infrastructure.
On Tuesday, Senator Lawan spoke during the commissioning of the Uyo-Ikot Ekpene dual carriageway.
He also reassured the people of Akwa Ibom that the federal government is committed to infrastructure development and will find long-term solutions to the Ikot Ekpene-Aba road’s challenges.
“What you have done here is to show the way on how we can develop our country, our states and communities. The business of infrastructure development, if it will ever serve the population citizens and of Nigeria must be the business of all tiers and levels of government.
“I’ve heard you very clearly when you say you want the federal government to refund you for constructing this federal road. You are right. For me, you deserve more than a refund. I’ll join you to present the request for a refund.”
Gov. Udom Emmanuel earlier briefed the Senate President that the state could not wait for federal government intervention as Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road is ‘a proper federal government road’ and that it is located in the centre of the State.
The state governor gave reasons why the federal government should support the state as it plans to develop three major gateway dual carriage roads linking Uyo to the Atlantic, Uyo to Etinan, Etinan to Eket and Eket to Ibeno.
“We need to be supported, we need to encourage. We are on the right course to get these things done.” Gov Udom noted. So we’re expecting all IOC’s to come back, because we can not build this kind of road and we don’t have those to ply the road and make good use of the road.” Gov. Emmanuel said the road project is critical in his completion agenda.
Among the dignitaries at the commissioning were Senators Akon Eyakenyi, Chris Ekpenyong, Senator Aloysius Etok and many others.
Also present at the commissioning were Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene, Chief Afangide and Management of Julius Berger.
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