Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Housing and Special Duties, Mr Akan Okon has reiterated the resolve of Governor Udom Emmanuel to complete major projects ongoing in Akwa Ibom State.
At a Media Parley held at his Ewet Housing Residence in Uyo, are nothing weekend, the erstwhile Finance Boss stated that the current administration remains totally committed to its industrialization agenda, maintaining that the Governor Emmanuel’s-led administration will fulfil its campaign promises to the people.
When quizzed about the Ibaka Deep Sea Oort, Mr Okon who hinted that the project is jointly financed and promoted by both State and Federal Governments, said the project is in the Exclusive List, hence, every action is being approved by the Ministry of Transport.
He explained that even without dredging, the Port is about 16-18 metres deep, saying it can take any large ship that cannot go near any other port in the Country.
He noted that Governor Udom Emmanuel sees the project as very viable due to the employment opportunities it will create for the people of the State when fully operational and expressed optimism that the project will be inaugurated by the end of year 2018.
On the Ibom Tropicana project, he said “The project was set up to serve a purpose for Akwa Ibom and its people. Presently, we have identified an investor in the section of the Wet and Dry Park and as we speak, they are doing audit of the equipments. I am very certain, considering the rate that we are going, that it will be opened for use this December.”
While responding to questions about the proposed Shoprite project, Okon linked the delay on the commencement of the project to the hike in the cost of Dollar to Naira, but however assured that work will soon commence at the site.
He also revealed that the Akwa Ibom State Lodge in Lagos has reached 98% completion with just furnishing works ongoing and further said work at the 21 Storey Building edifice has reached an advanced stage and assured that all foundation work at the edifice has been completed.
About Ibom International Airport, the Commissioner said the Facility has been run with internal power supply since inception, but said the Government has successfully completed the Power Substation and will reduce spendings on purchase of fuel.
He said the Airport has recorded significant success especially in the construction of the second runway and taxi way which is now at an advance stage, to ensure that issues are avoided that might lead to closure of the place like in the Abuja case.
He thanked the former Governor, Obong Victor Attah for his commitment and contributions towards the development of the state. He appreciated him for his advice on the airport MRO project which he recently submitted to the Governor describing it as nonpolitical but rather well-meaning for the state.
On the political scene, he stated that the second term bid of Governor Udom Emmnanuel is sure and that by God’s Grace he will win. He expressed optimism that despite the defections in the party, the people of Itu Local Government Area remains united for Udom. He enumerated the achievements of the present administration describing as a unique selling point for him.
“The Governor has done very well in different sectors across the state ranging from payment of salaries on time, payment of 10 years backlog of pensions , road constriction, power generation, waec fees among others. With all these and many more, the people of the state will totally support him come 2019.”
© Uwakmfon Dan
