Cross River Gov’t Flags Off Construction of 17km Boki East-West Road

In a major push to improve road infrastructure and enhance socio-economic development in rural communities, the Cross River State Government has formally flagged off the construction of the first 17-kilometer section of the Boki East-West Road.

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The ceremony, which marked the commencement of Phase-1 works, took place within Boki Local Government Area, with Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.

The newly launched stretch begins at the Onitcha-Farm Roundabout and extends to Kataba Junction along the Ikom-Obudu Road, a strategic route linking rural and urban parts of Boki.

For years, this road corridor had deteriorated significantly, impeding farmers, traders and commuters.

Residents have long complained of the road’s poor condition, which often made travel slow and expensive, disrupted market activities, and restricted access to farmlands.

With the commencement of works, stakeholders say local businesses, agricultural value chains and transporters will benefit from smoother movement of goods and services.

The improved road is expected to foster economic growth, reduce travel times, and lower the cost of doing business in the area.

At the flag-off event, the Deputy Governor highlighted the critical role of road infrastructure in unlocking the development potential of hinterland communities.

He assured that the state government will remain steadfast in delivering more road projects across the Boki region and other underserved areas.

“This road is a landmark project that will connect farmers to markets, families to schools, and communities to opportunities,” the deputy governor said.

Officials affirm that further phases of the East-West Road will be rolled out in subsequent stages as funding and planning conclude.

Analysts have noted that improved road infrastructure is crucial for sustainable development, particularly in rural parts of Cross River State where agricultural and commercial activities remain the backbone of the local economy.

Better roads not only enhance mobility but also improve access to healthcare, education and emergency services, long-standing concerns among residents of Boki Local Government and neighbouring communities.

Community leaders and local stakeholders present at the event praised the initiative, saying it signals government responsiveness to grassroots needs after years of promises and setbacks.

Many residents expressed optimism that the project will catalyze growth in farming, trade and inter-community commerce, and help reduce transportation costs.

Investors and business groups have likewise welcomed the project, believing that improved infrastructure will attract more economic activities to Boki and adjoining areas.

As construction begins, technical teams are expected to undertake earthworks, drainage installation, and paving operations over the coming months.

The successful delivery of this project will be closely watched by residents, policymakers and development partners eager to see tangible progress in rural infrastructure.

This road project joins a broader series of infrastructure and economic renewal efforts being championed by the Cross River State Government under Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, which has prioritized road networks as a key pillar of regional development.