Buhari flags off construction of Cross River’s super highway

The President, who arrived the venue of the ceremony to a rousing carnival-like welcome, commended the governor for his foresight in conceiving the project.
Speaking on the significance of the road, the President said upon completion, the road will “undoubtedly expand the boundaries of our economy by providing countries such as Niger Republic and Chad access to the seaport.

“It is my expectation that in turn, this should swing open the doors of opportunity for the people of Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.”
Speaking further, President Buhari said the “road is expected to reduce travel time, which I am told, from six hours to two hours from Calabar to the famous Obudu Ranch Resort. With a reduction in travel time, less man-hour would be wasted on the road.”

He said his decision to perform the ceremony in person underscores the importance the Federal Government attaches to it.
“Given the multiplier effect these two laudable projects are expected to generate, in terms of aggregate spinoffs, I want to assure you of my determination and as well as the commitment of the Federal Government to ensuring that this road and indeed the seaport runs to a quick completion.”
He expressed his appreciation to the people of the state for the warm reception accorded him.

Earlier, Governor Ayade, who described the road as a “digital road,” said it will be fitted with speed control cameras, motels, filling stations, internet broadband and 24hr ambulance service.

A section of the road will also be tunneled, he disclosed.
He said the road project, which is a Public Private Partnership ( PPP), will be completed between four to five years.

Dignitaries at the event included Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo, former governors of Cross River, Senator Liyel Imoke and Donald Duke, the Obong of Calabar and Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Senator Rose Oko, Senator Owan Eno, Senator Geshom Bassey amongst others.