The President of Nigeria, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), has commissioned the newly constructed 1.2km Ikom Bridge in Cross River State. The bridge’s construction was part of the government’s drive to improve economic activities in the state by boosting accessibility along the major South-North highway.
Buhari, who commissioned the project virtually from the Federal Capital Territory, noted that the bridge’s construction would enhance Nigerians’ economic prosperity. He further stated that the National Planning Commission recommended the bridge’s construction several years ago due to the inadequacy of the existing bridge’s headroom.
Represented in the state by the Federal Controller of Works in Cross River State, Koya Kehinde, Buhari further said that the Ikom Bridge was among the seven projects commissioned on Tuesday, which included three federal secretariats, three bridges, and a road.
The President added that the bridge’s completion would enable heavy-duty trucks to access the project corridor and make the Calabar seaport, airport, and free trade zone accessible. Also, the bridge’s construction would stimulate economic activities along the South-South and South-East regions.
Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State applauded the President for the Ikom Bridge’s project, which he noted has already reduced the level of poverty in the state. Ayade, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Works, Engr. Dane Osim-Asu, said the federal government has rehabilitated nine of the thirteen trunk A roads of the state. He, however, urged the government to rehabilitate the remaining four roads, which have contributed significantly to the halt of economic activities in the region.
In conclusion, the Ikom Bridge’s construction is a significant infrastructural development that has boosted economic activities in Cross River State, and it will also improve citizens’ living standards.
