On the 7th of October, 2024, the mandate to run the affairs of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area as Chairman was saddled on Hon. Aniefiok Nkom following his swearing-in into office by the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.
Having assumed office, a show of remarkable achievements in various sectors in lieu of his mantra of Restoration has been recorded in areas such as infrastructure development, staff welfare, environment and in agriculture.
Fielding the journalist of his achievements, today in his office, Hon. Nkom said, in the area of infrastructure development, he has prioritized the need and has carried out grading of rural roads and maintenance of existing tarred roads; rehabilitation of the Council’s own grader machine to full functionality which was abandoned for twelve (12) years; ongoing works for the expansion and completion of new ultra modern motor parks.
Mentioning the roads that has been graded, were; Nto Essien Ubong Road, Atim road, Abak Oko Road, Akpan Essien Road, Utu Ikot Essien Road, Idim Ukwa Road, Ward Centre Abak Oko Road, Nnyaraenyin Ikot Ubo Road, Ntok eben Road, Mbiaso Adatatak Road, Ikot Esa Udo Nto Obodom Road, Ikot Ntuen Ikot Udo Oboro Adatatak Road.
Also, maintenance and repair of the failed portions of urban roads include; Dibue Road, Market Road, Abiakpo Road, Essien Road, Old Itu Road,, Atan Road and Chubb Road
On staff welfare, the Local Government Chairman has shown commitment through repairing of 65KVA council-owned power plant, provision of office furniture for the Executive and Legislative arms, renovation of the old Council Secretariat; as well as renovating nineteen restrooms which were non-functional posing inconvenience for staff wellbeing. He said, this is to provide a better working environment for staff and restore the aesthetic appeal of the structure.
In ensuring the serenity and environmental safety of residents in the local government, Hon. Nkom has shown commitment in ensuring evacuation of disposable materials and refuse from illegal dumpsites to tackle waste management, as well as ensuring the reclamation of motorways and public spaces for commercial activities for the benefit of local businesses, and boosting the economy.
To position Ikot Ekpene Local Government as the food basket of the State, Hon. Nkom has engaged in acquisition of landmass for agricultural revolution in the area; and has trained farmers in the local government on Home Gardening. He said this effort will encourage the people of Ikot Ekpene to engage in farming for commercial usage which in turn will enhance economic boost in the area.
Moreover, the Local Government Chairman while revealing his plans to commence empowerment of Women and youths in skill acquisition programmes through cooperative models, has empowered and provided succour to citizens through payment of school fees and medical bills. Also the Youth Employment Portal Webpage will be launched shortly .
In addition, he said, ground-breaking for the construction of Raffia City and Craft Mall is underway, this he added, will boost the economy of the area and attract investors.
Hon. Nkom said, empowerment will position them to be financially strong and enable them compete with their peers from other parts of the world, as well as also encourage them to recognize the challenges they face; providing enabling opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment for the realisation of full potentials.
Acknowledging that much work needs to be done, he said his administration has been on course to accomplish its campaign promises in many areas, including human capital development, health, empowerment, entrepreneurial/skill acquisition, and security with the overall aim to open up the economy of the area. He listed his focus in education which primed as a first line charge, saying, plans are underway to refurbishing primary schools and providing indigent children with uniforms, shoes, bags and other basic needs in the local government area.
Commending the good people of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area for entrusting the affairs of the area on him, he also pledged to fulfil on the campaign promises and embark on more developmental projects in the area.
The administration of Hon Aniefiok Nkom within 100 days in office has been characterised by a commitment towards improving the lives of citizens and resident of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
Credit:Otobong Eshiet.
Area Information/Public Relations Officer,
Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council
15/1/2025
