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30/03/2025

LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL ROAD PROJECT: HI-TECH CONSTRUCTION COMPANY ENGAGES ALIGNED COMMUNITIES IN OKOBO

First Media Naija Blog | March 30, 2025

In a bid to facilitate a smooth ex*****on of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, Hi-Tech Construction Company, the project's contractors, on Saturday March 29, 2025 met with stakeholders from the communities that are located along the corridor of the road project in Okobo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The meeting which took place at the Multipurpose Hall Council Secretariat, Okopedi, had in attendance the Executive Chairman of Okobo Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) George Henshaw, the Paramount Ruler of Okobo, His Eminence, Edidem Ita Okokon (Isonsi 1) the Secretary of Council, Pastor Etim Ibok, Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman, Elder Honourable Ben Oyombio, Supervisor for Works and Transport, Esther Effiong Solomon, Supervisor for Youth Development Sports and Internal Security, Mr. Nse Oluhu, Supervisor for Information and Strategic Planning, Mr. Isaac Okon, Aides to the Executive Chairman as well as representatives from the aligned communities.

Chairman Henshaw stressed the need for collective support to ensure the project's successful kickoff, he listed the numerous benefits of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project to Akwa Ibom State and Okobo, emphasizing its potential to boost economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. calling on all stakeholders to unite behind the initiative. As he addressed the meeting, he underscored the significance of a collaborative effort in driving the project forward.

The Council Boss listed the numerous benefits of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project to Akwa Ibom State and Okobo, emphasizing its potential to boost economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.

Speaking on behalf of the company, the Public Relations Officer, Barrister Alphonsus Etim who was joined by Engr. Joseph and Surveyor Edidiong, emphasized Hi-Tech Construction Company's commitment to ensuring a harmonious working relationship with the host communities.

"We believe in engaging with the communities, addressing their concerns, and providing adequate compensation for any inconvenience caused by the project," he stated.
"Our goal is to deliver a world-class infrastructure project that will transform the lives of the people in the region, and we cannot achieve this without the support and cooperation of the host communities."

The Company's spokesperson added that the project is a Federal Government Project under the Federal Ministry of Works, and as such, all compensation and evaluation processes are being handled by the Ministry. "We are working closely with the Ministry to ensure that all necessary procedures are followed, and that the rights of the host communities are protected," he explained.

The community leaders, who spoke during the meeting, expressed their appreciation for the company's willingness to engage with the community and pledged their support for the project. They, however, raised concerns regarding the potential environmental impact of the project and the need for the company to provide adequate compensation to community members who would be affected by the project.

Representatives from the aligned communities, including Odobo Group of Villages, Nsie group of Villages, Eweme Group of Villages, and Issa Okiuso. Group of Villages, were present, comprising village heads, village council chairmen, women leaders, youth leaders, and six other community members.

In response to the concerns raised by the community leaders, Barrister Alphonsus, the Public Relations Officer of Hi-Tech Construction Company, assured them that the project has a thorough environmental impact assessment that will ensure that the project is executed in accordance with international best practices. He also pledged that the company would engage with the community to determine the adequate compensation for community members who would be affected by the project.

Additionally, the company representatives pleaded with the host communities, especially those with crops along the corridor, to urgently harvest them as pecking and opening would begin on Monday, March 31, 2025. This urgent call was made to minimize losses and ensure a smooth project ex*****on.

The meeting provided a platform for Hi-Tech Construction Company to engage with the host communities, address concerns, and outline the project's benefits. As the project progresses, the company's commitment to community engagement and social responsibility is expected to continue, ensuring a positive impact on the affected communities.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, which spans over 1,100 kilometers, is a major infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation and economic development in the region. The project is expected to be completed in the next five years.

15/02/2025

08/02/2025

ROADS REHABILITATION: Okobo Council Chairman Sends SOS to Gov Umo Eno
...as AKROIMA helmsman inspects affected areas

The Executive Chairman of Okobo Local Government Council, Hon George Henshaw has appealed to His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno to come to their rescue by tackling the potholes on the 8.5km Okono-Odobo-Utim Ukuko-Urue Ita road with a spur at Oyubia, as well as other roads affected by potholes in the area. The Chairman made the call recently, during an inspection visit by Acting Chairman of AKROIMA, Engr Sylvanus Udoh, FNATE to the affected areas, on the request by the Okobo Council boss.

Speaking, Hon Henshaw, highlighted the optimal economic importance of the road and called for urgent intervention. His words:
"Every road construction has its optimal usage. At the moment, this particular road if rehabilitated, would give easy access to the East West Road. Moreover, the spot is the economic and social hub of Atak Oro people, which are the two blogs of Okobo Local Government Area. The entire of this area has a lot of palm fruits and other farm produce, but we have difficulty in accessing them because of bad roads. But if the road is rehabilitated, it will ameliorate the sufferings o of people doing business within the area, and of course, add more value to the government and economic lives of the people."

He added that the only health centre in the place had been abandoned as a result of the bad road, and therefore called on the State Government to come to their rescue and help rehabilitate the bad roads for the people.

"I want to use this opportunity to humbly appeal to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, to come to our aid. He has done so well for the people of the State; and currently we are also benefiting from the remodeling of school and Health facility which incidentally is located around the bad road. Therefore, there is no way we can embark on any meaningful projects without having to work on the road.

And Personally, I am proposing to construct a market and a Police post in the area,, hence, we need to open the place up, to enable people come in and do business", Hon Henshaw said.

On his part, the Acting Chairman of AKROIMA, Engr Sylvanus Udoh, FNATE pointed out that the best way to have good roads durability is through maintenance. He promised to partner with the Okobo Chairman to achieve mission for his people.

Engr Udoh assured that the Akwa Ibom State Roads and Other Infrastructure Maintenance Agency (AKROIMA) is ready with its equipments and expertise to deliver on the job.

Other access roads in Okobo LGA affected by potholes include: the 7km Utim Okuko-Enweme road, 6km Urue Ita-Udung Affiang-Udung Amkpe-Udung Umo Road, etc.

©️ Nseobong Umoidem

19/12/2024

OKOBO LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION INITIATIVE
..AS CHAIRMAN'S WIFE URGES MOTHERS TO PRIORITIZE REGULAR IMMUNIZATION

In a collaborative effort with the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health-care Development Agency, the Okobo Local Government has launched a robust routine immunization intensification exercise. The launch of the initiative which took place at the Primary Health Center, Okopedi, on Wednesday December 17, 2024, aims to vaccinate children who missed their immunizations during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

Mrs. Nelly George Henshaw, Wife of the Executive Chairman of Okobo Local Government Area, officiated the launch of the initiative. In her address, she acknowledged the impactful health insurance policy of the Governor Umo Eno's led administration, noting its potential to alleviate public health burdens by making healthcare more accessible and affordable.

Mrs. Henshaw emphasized the importance of maternal compliance with health recommendations and early immunization in preventing diseases. She stressed that immunization is foundational to pediatric health and should ideally occur at birth. She also urged pregnant women to have regular check-ups to ensure optimal health outcomes for both mothers and infants.

In her remarks, Mrs. Imeobong Ukana, representing the Director for Health in the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health from the World Health Organization (WHO), commended the Okobo Local Government for launching the routine immunization initiative. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, and local communities in promoting public health. Ukana pledged the continued support of the WHO in strengthening the state's healthcare system.

On her part, Ukeme Akpan, Local Government Immunization Officer for Okobo, highlighted the significance of the initiative in preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. She noted that the exercise would focus on vaccinating children who missed their immunizations during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, especially those living in riverine communities. Akpan urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the initiative to ensure their children receive comprehensive vaccination against preventable diseases.

Earlier, Mrs. Margaret Mkpan, Director of Primary Health Care Centers for Okobo, appreciated the efforts of Mrs. Henshaw in launching the initiative. She emphasized the importance of strengthening primary healthcare services in promoting public health. Mkpan noted that the primary health care center would continue to provide essential healthcare services to the community.

Mbripon William (CCO) and Blessing Patrick Udoh (LNO) also delivered remarks, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in promoting public health. They noted that the initiative would not have been successful without the support of local leaders and community members.

The initiative is part of Governor Umo Eno's comprehensive Arise Agenda, which prioritizes health and hygiene in Akwa Ibom State. The agenda encompasses a broad range of goals, including poverty reduction, job creation, price stability, sustainable economic growth, improved standard of living, environmental sustainability, and a highly educated, healthy, and skilled populace.

The program will run for five days, providing vaccinations against diseases like measles, polio, and tuberculosis. Healthcare professionals will administer the vaccinations, ensuring that children and communities across Okobo Local Government Area have access to essential healthcare services.

A significant highlight of the event was the presentation of gift items by the First Lady of Okobo, Mrs Nelly Henshaw, including pampers and tissues, aimed at enhancing proper healthy practice within local communities. Additionally, cash gifts were presented to mothers and their infants.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including Mrs. Sarah Esin, State Technical Facilitator, and the wife to the Secretary of Council, Mrs. Roseline Ibok, the PDP Okobo Chapter Women Leader, Majority Leader in the Okobo Local Government Legislative Council, and Honourable Councillor representing Eweme Ward 1, Hon. Mrs. Margaret Efretuei, and Ward's Personal Assistants to Governor Umo Eno, including the Dean of the College of Personal Aides to the Governor, Hon. Helena Andem Etim from Okopedi Ward 1, Hon. Okon Nyong Ante from Eweme 2, Mrs Nkoyo from Nung Atai Ube 3, while Lady Mercy Uneh, Women Development Officer for Okobo Local Government Council, moderated the event.

Mrs. Sarah Esin, the State Technical Facilitator, expressed her gratitude to Mrs. Henshaw for launching the initiative and commended the healthcare professionals who worked tirelessly to make the Big Catch-Up initiative a success.

Media and Public Affairs Office
Okobo Local Government Council
Akwa Ibom State
December 18, 2024

03/12/2024

OKOBO LGC SOLEMN ASSEMBLY (DECEMBER EDITION)

Watch as Rt. Hon. Engr. George Henshaw, Executive Chairman of Okobo Local Government Council, shares his remarks at the December edition of the council's Solemn Assembly. "OKOBO LGC SOLEMN ASSEMBLY (DECEMBER EDITION)

Watch as Rt. Hon. Engr. George Henshaw, Executive Chairman of Okobo Local Government Council, shares his remarks at the December edition of the council's Solemn Assembly.

26/08/2024

Zion and Chinwe (Zinwe) have been evicted from the BBNaija show.

26/08/2024

I'm yet to find the scripture that says women must take their husband's surname - Actress Lala Akindoju.

26/08/2024

: "I'm genuinely sorry. I didn't mean to get you worked up" - Wanni apologizes to Shaun, hours after she complained about his behavior towards her despite cooking and doing his laundry.

26/08/2024

A 22-year-old crossdresser identified as Syabonga Clement Hadebe, has been br¥tally m3rdered by unknown assailants in South Africa.

According to reports, Hadebe was sh+t nine times while walking home in Malvern, Johannesburg.

His lif+less body was found by the police with multiple g¥sh+t wo¥nds on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Cartridges were found on the scene, and Clement was declared d3ad.

Women For Change advocacy group in a statement on Saturday, August 24, said the deceased identified as a trans woman and had recently started transitioning.

Local media reports indicate Hadebe, who is from KwaZulu-Natal province, was at a popular outing area in Johannesburg on the night of August 9 with a friend when they began to interact with the alleged male sh+oter who was showing interest in them, especially Hadebe.

They however left with the alleged sh+oter, who didn’t want to go with Hadebe’s friend to the B&B. The friend was later dropped off, and Hadebe and the alleged sh+oter were left alone.

22/07/2024

Government funds can be utilized in one of two ways:

- Either allocate resources directly towards projects that benefit the local community, enhancing public welfare and quality of life.

- Or distribute funds among a select group of stakeholders and associates, prioritizing individual interests over public needs.

It's important to note that both approaches cannot be simultaneously implemented, as they have conflicting priorities. If funds are allocated to benefit the community through projects, there will be less available for distribution among stakeholders. Conversely, if funds are shared among stakeholders, it may come at the expense of community development projects.

This dichotomy highlights the need for transparent and accountable decision-making in government fund allocation, ensuring that resources are utilized in a manner that truly serves the public interest.

Interestingly, public perception often reflects this tension. When a public office holder prioritizes projects over personal handouts, some stakeholders and friends might criticize them as "stingy" or unwilling to share resources.

However, when the same office holder prioritizes sharing funds with friends and stakeholders over project implementation, they might claim that "there's no money" (okuk Idu he) to justify the lack of project funding. This inconsistency underscores the importance of prioritizing transparency and accountability in government fund allocation.

Ironically, it is often the same individuals who receive personal handouts from public officers who later decry the lack of development in their communities. This hypocrisy highlights the need for a shift in mindset, recognizing that true development comes from investments in community projects, not personal enrichment.

A notable example of a public office holder prioritizing projects over personal handouts is Hon. Engr George Henshaw, the Transition Committee Chairman of Okobo. Despite his commendable efforts in executing projects that benefit the community, he faces criticism from some stakeholders and friends who accuse him of being "stingy" and unwilling to share resources.

However, it is essential to recognize that Hon. Henshaw's commitment to project implementation aligns with his responsibility to serve the public interest. His dedication to enhancing the community's quality of life through tangible projects is a testament to his leadership and vision.

Victor Paul UNOH writes from Etieke Nduong village in Okobo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Image credit: Meta Ai

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06/03/2024

OKOBO TRANSITION CHAIRMAN'S THREE MONTHS OF GIANT STRIDES ATTRACT ENCOMIUMS FROM STAKEHOLDERS... _GRADES 22 FEEDER ROADS_ ... _PROPOSES CONSTRUCTION OF 33 BO...

06/03/2024

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