Akwa Ibom State Prioritizes Rural Development with AKS-RAAMP and Arise Agenda

The Akwa Ibom State Government is actively working to improve the lives of its citizens through strategic initiatives focused on rural development and economic growth.

Two key projects, the Akwa Ibom State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (AKS-RAAMP) and the Arise Agenda, are driving these efforts. AKS-RAAMP, a tripartite partnership with the World Bank, French Development Agency, and Akwa Ibom State Government, aims to enhance rural infrastructure, while the Arise Agenda, a policy framework led by Governor Umo Eno, outlines the administration’s vision for agricultural revolution, rural development, infrastructure, security, and education.

AKS-RAAMP is making significant progress in improving rural roads, market infrastructure, and bridges. The 11-kilometer demonstration road connecting Owotuta, Ikot Okubo, Ikot Ikerre, Itoko, Afaha Ikot Owop, Afaha Udo Eyop, and Edeobom 1, in Ibesikpo Asutan and Nsit Ibom Local Government Areas, is a prime example of the project’s impact. The road is nearing completion, with 70.07% of the work already finished.

The World Bank and the Federal Project Management Unit have praised AKS-RAAMP as a model for rural development projects nationwide. The 11-kilometer road serves as a vital access route to Ekponwa market, one of the hubs being upgraded under the project.

Beyond the demonstration road, AKS-RAAMP is also implementing:

• Backlog maintenance: Construction of 36.766 kilometers of roads.
• Spot improvement: Construction of 110.92 kilometers of roads.

The State Project Coordinator, Gideon Akpan, has consistently advocated for special consideration for Akwa Ibom due to its unique geographic challenges.

The Arise Agenda complements AKS-RAAMP by providing a broader framework for the state’s development. The administration’s commitment to rural development is evident through initiatives like the demonstration road project.

As the Akwa Ibom State Government continues to implement these initiatives, it is clear that rural communities are benefiting from improved infrastructure, access to markets, and enhanced livelihoods.