Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially unveiled the design and performed the turning of the sod for the construction of the Ikot Ekpene International Market, describing the project as a strategic investment in trade, employment and economic opportunities for the people.
The event, held on Wednesday, September 30, formed part of activities marking the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State and took place in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Eno said the project was evidence of the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible infrastructure across the state, recalling earlier questions over the number and location of projects promised as part of the anniversary activities.
“When we first started, the opposition asked, ‘Where are the 39 projects?’
“Today, we can gladly tell them to come and see.”
He explained that the project went beyond the construction of a market, describing it as an investment in the economic future of the state.
“Today, we are not just laying a foundation or turning the sod for this market; we are laying a foundation for prosperity, building infrastructure for opportunities, and creating a platform upon which our traders, entrepreneurs, artisans, manufacturers, and young people can build their dreams.”
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Captain Iniobong Ekong (Rtd.), said the project reflected the Governor’s deliberate effort to position Akwa Ibom as a hub for trade, tourism and industrialisation, among other sectors.
According to him, the first phase of the market comprises 30 blocks of double-deck structures with 108 shops, as well as two warehouses, restaurants, cold rooms, a police station, asphalt and concrete roads.
Captain Ekong said the strategic location of the market would attract traders and customers from neighbouring states and beyond, particularly Cross River, Abia and Rivers States, as well as Cameroon.
“Upon completion, this market is going to generate income and revenue, create employment, and connect us with the trade hubs of the Gulf of Guinea.”
The Director-General of Campaigns, Ambassador Chief Assam Assam (SAN), also commended the Governor for the project, stressing its accessibility to communities across the state.
He said the market was strategically located and could be reached from different parts of Akwa Ibom within a relatively short period.
Chief Assam recalled the Governor’s earlier promise to establish an international market in Ikot Ekpene, describing the project as the fulfilment of a vision that had been announced to the people.
“I remember that the Governor was in Ikot Ekpene Stadium when he said he was going to build an international market in Ikot Ekpene. This market is this Governor’s dream child.”
Also, Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, speaking on behalf of stakeholders in the area, said the project was conceived by the people of Ikot Ekpene as far back as 2010 but had remained unrealised through successive administrations.
He commended Governor Eno for completing the process of actualising the project.
“This project started in 2010 when it was conceived by the people of Ikot Ekpene. And through three administrations, this project did not see the light of day, but when you came with the finisher’s anointing, this project is now actualised.”
Earlier in an address, the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Hon. Elder Aniefiok Nkom, expressed appreciation to Governor Eno for bringing the long-awaited project to fruition.
Hon. Nkom recalled discussions surrounding the economic significance of the market, noting that its location was expected to redirect commercial traffic and attract traders who ordinarily travel to other commercial centres.
He described the Governor as “a man of his word,” saying the people of Ikot Ekpene were particularly excited about the commencement of the project.
The Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Okuku Okon Udo Ukut, expressed gratitude to the Governor, describing the project as a significant development for the area.
The project is expected to strengthen commercial activities in Ikot Ekpene, create employment opportunities and expand the state’s trade links with neighbouring states and the wider Gulf of Guinea region.
