2 hours ago
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UYO – With road conditions worsening and delays becoming insufferable, Hon. Moses Essien, representing Ibiono Ibom state constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has called on the federal government to expedite the long-overdue completion of the Calabar-Itu Federal Highway.
The critical stretch of road, which has languished in partial reconstruction for over five years, remains a bottleneck for commuters and a major hurdle for economic activity in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
During a visit to the highway’s failing section at Ikot Ebom, Ibiono Ibom at the weekend, Essien described the scene as dire: long lines of vehicles stretch for kilometers as frustrated commuters wait days to navigate the impassable route.
“This road, in its current state, isolates Akwa Ibom and Cross River states from the rest of the country. People sleep on this road for days, unable to reach their destinations—this is unacceptable and urgent action is needed.” Essien lamented
Essien’s plea goes beyond simple repair; he is advocating for the highway’s dualisation to improve traffic flow, ensure safety, and support the socio-economic aspirations of both states.
He highlighted the highway’s strategic importance as a link between the South-South and South-East regions, underscoring its role in national unity, trade, and economic growth. “We need the federal government and President Bola Tinubu to prioritize and adequately fund this project. This road is vital for our people and for the entire country.” Essien said
Our correspondent reports that the Calabar-Itu highway, constructed in the 1970s, has outlived its lifespan, causing recurring traffic jams, vehicle breakdowns, and a heavy toll on the local economy. Businesses struggle to access markets, and communities are cut off from essential services. Despite the involvement of three construction firms—including CCECC, handling the Ikot Ekpene axis with a spur at Ididep—progress has been frustratingly slow, leaving residents, commuters, and businesses caught in a seemingly unending cycle of gridlock and decay.
Stakeholders from both Akwa Ibom and Cross River have long expressed frustration, emphasizing that the road’s current state not only impacts local economies but also poses a national security risk. Local business owners and community leaders warn that prolonged neglect undermines economic opportunities and stifles investment in the region.
Essien’s urgent appeal represents the collective voice of those who rely on this critical infrastructure daily. “This highway is a lifeline for trade, family connections, and cultural exchange,” he said, “By neglecting this road, we’re holding back growth and causing hardship for countless Nigerians. We can’t afford more delays.”
