Akwa Ibom State government has announced plans to relocate residents affected by the reclamation of erosion site in Ewet, in Uyo metropolis of the state capital.
Governor Umo Eno gave the order during an inspection of the project which also includes a beautification project.
Interacting with one of the residents in the area during an unscheduled visit to the project site, Eno directed the Commissioner for Lands, Iniobong Ekong to ensure immediate relocation to enable the smooth implementation of the project plan.
He noted that beyond constructing a major gully erosion site in the area, by reclaiming the once inaccessible and life-threatening ravine, the government aims at creating wealth out of the waste.
The Governor who toured the site, said the trees and forest within the area should be pruned to create the desired scenic atmosphere.
He expressed delight at the pace of work, which is at a very advanced stage, and assured that when completed, children and their parents, from within and outside the State, will have a good facility for relaxation.
Giving an insight into the project, the Managing Director of the contracting firm, BBulletinConstruction Company Limited, Chief Faysal Harb, noted that phase one of the recreational park,
which has a golf course, football pitch, lawn tennis court, basketball, volleyball, and Children’s playground, among others, was taking shape.
During his first visit some months ago, the Udo Inwang Street axis of the site had collapsed at the Etim Okon Usanga intersection, and the governor had assured that upon completion, the hitherto dangerous ravine will be converted into a recreational facility that will be a tourists’ delight.
At the time of the visit, the collapsed and inaccessible areas had been restored, including its extension which Eno has added to the contract to prevent the Uyo Custodial Centre from being affected by the erosion.