By: Uwem Offon, Uyo
The Chairman of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Ime Williamson Essien, has embarked on numerous projects in the council area meant to give the locals a phase of living.
Some of the projects are to be inaugurated by the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno while the road project is to be completed within the first quarter of next year.
Speaking during a pre-commissioning inspection tour with a documentary team led by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, the chairman highlighted several completed projects, including the ongoing 1.6km Ikot Umbiang internal road, Essene Water Project, Ikot Okwo Health Centre, and rural electrification projects across Ikot Ikara, Ikot Obio Ekpe, and Iboro communities in Edemaya Clan.
The projects, he noted, reflect the council’s commitment to infrastructural renewal, rural connectivity, and improved living standards for residents.
Essien explained that the Ikot Umbiang Road, initially designed as a 1km stretch, was extended to 1.6km, thereby easing mobility and stimulating economic activity.
“The 1.6km road which js 7.3m wide, is equipped with 600x600mm concrete drains and double-sided gutters to prevent flooding and enhance durability ,” the chairman noted.
He also visited the Ikot Umbiang Water Project, describing it as a 39-meter-high water tank of 250 litres, solar-powered facility capable of supplying water round the clock.
According to him, the automated pumping system ensures that the tank refills automatically once the water level drops, guaranteeing a constant supply for residents.
At Ikot Okwo, Essien inspected a newly completed primary health centre designed to serve seven neighboring communities. He hinted that he is partnering Sterling Global company for the full equipping of the facility to operate 24 hours daily.
“Healthcare accessibility remains a priority for our administration. This center is fully completed and ready to serve the people,” he affirmed.
The chairman further expressed satisfaction with the rural electrification projects spanning Ikot Ikara, Ikot Obio Ekpe, and Iboro communities in Edemaya Clan.
He explained that each location now benefits from newly installed transformers and power lines, bringing long-awaited electricity to the communities.
“Electricity was their greatest need before now. Today, these communities can finally experience steady power supply,” he added.
Residents of Iboro Community confirmed the development, noting that the installation of a 300KVA transformer and new power lines has restored hope and improved local productivity.
Similarly, in Essene Community, a 30-meter-high solar-powered water tank has brought an end to years of water scarcity. Elated villagers expressed gratitude to the local government for the intervention.
“Before now, we trekked long distances to fetch water from streams. Today, we have clean water right in our community. We thank God and our leaders,” one resident remarked.
The commissioning ceremony will include formal inspection and handover of these projects, followed by the unveiling of new vehicles at the Ikot Abasi Local Government Secretariat and a Town Hall Meeting with community stakeholders.
Hon. Essien reaffirmed that these projects reflect the grassroots development vision of the ARISE Agenda championed by Governor Umo Eno, assuring that his administration remains committed to improving infrastructure and service delivery across all wards of Ikot Abasi.
