For many years, the heartbeat of rural Akwa Ibom throbbed quietly behind broken, muddy roads—its people full of potential, but hemmed in by poor access to essential services and economic opportunities. In communities like Nsit Ibom and Ibesikpo Asutan, life was marked by struggle: markets lacked customers, schools saw dwindling attendance, healthcare was out of reach, and young people left in search of greener pastures elsewhere.
But today, a different story is unfolding. Thanks to the targeted intervention of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Government, rural connectivity is no longer a dream—it is a visible, impactful reality that is rewriting the narrative of entire communities.
One of the most transformative developments has been the construction of the Owot Uta – Nung Oku Ekere – Afaha Udo Eyop – Edeobom – Utuat Market Junction rural demonstration road. Once a nearly impassable stretch of bush paths and eroded terrain, the road now stands as a shining example of what strategic infrastructure can do to unlock potential, energize communities, and improve everyday life.
“Before now, the road was very bad. There were places you had to stop and walk to get past the worst sections,” said Mr. Effiong, a Community Liaison Officer who has witnessed the transformation firsthand. “But now, as you can see, the road is smooth—it’s a free ride all the way.”
A New Lease on Daily Life and Business
The impact of the road on daily life has been immediate and far-reaching. In Nsit Ibom, what used to be an arduous journey from one village to another—especially during the rainy season—is now a quick, smooth trip. Previously, vehicles and motorcycles would often get stuck in the mud, forcing passengers to disembark and push through slushy terrain. Many residents recall having to remove their shoes and roll up their trousers just to get across certain stretches.
Now, those memories are fading into the past.
“Today, I can drive from my palace to meet my colleague in Nsit Ibom in less than ten minutes—even in the rain,” beamed His Highness, Obong Joseph, the Village Head of Edeobom. “It’s a miracle compared to what we used to experience.”
For farmers and traders, the transformation has been a game-changer. The ability to transport goods efficiently to larger markets in Uyo, Itam, and surrounding urban centers has drastically reduced losses, especially for perishable produce. Agricultural goods now reach buyers in fresher condition, in larger quantities, and on time—resulting in higher incomes and reduced post-harvest waste.
Local traders have also seen a boom in their businesses. Roadside shops and kiosks that once sat idle now buzz with activity, especially on market days.
“Before, I had no sales because people avoided this area due to the bad road,” shared Idongesit a female shop owner in Afaha Udo Eyop. “But now, my shop is thriving. I’ve even taken in two apprentices to help me out. The difference is like night and day.”
Even in Ibesikpo Asutan, residents tell a similar story of renewed economic vitality.
“Before the road was constructed, the market here was small and slow. Now, the area is vibrant—on market days, you can barely find a parking space,” said a trader. “People come from nearby communities just to shop here.”
Iniobong John Akpan, a small-scale provision store owner, celebrated a remarkable turnaround in her business, thanks to the recent road improvements by the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).
According to Iniobong, the newly constructed road has significantly increased foot traffic in her area, bringing a steady flow of customers and a sharp rise in daily sales. “The improved accessibility has brought more people out,” she shared, “and that’s turned into a thriving market for me.”
While she’s overjoyed with the progress, Iniobong admits that her biggest challenge now is accessing capital to restock and keep up with the growing demand. Still, her heart is full of gratitude.
“I’m deeply thankful to the RAAMP family for their timely intervention,” she said. “I pray that God will open more doors for me and bless my efforts. RAAMP has truly made a positive impact on my business.”
Healthcare Access Restored
Perhaps one of the most life-saving changes has been in healthcare delivery. For years, the journey to health centers—particularly the Afaha Udo Eyop Health Center—was difficult, dangerous, and sometimes impossible during emergencies.
“In 2020, coming to the hospital was nearly impossible because of the road,” recalled Mrs. Gloria, a healthcare worker. “There were cases where women in labor couldn’t reach us in time, and patients in need of urgent care would be delayed for hours. It was heartbreaking.”
Now, things have changed dramatically. The rehabilitated road has restored confidence in the healthcare system. Ambulances and motorcycles can now reach homes faster, and patients can access clinics without fear of getting stranded.
“Today, patients show up on time. Pregnant women don’t have to wait till it’s too late. We can even conduct outreach visits to nearby villages. It has changed how we serve our people,” Mrs. Gloria added.
Education Rebounding
Education, too, has seen significant gains. Parents who once hesitated to send their children to school due to insecurity and poor road access now proudly watch them walk or ride safely along the new road. School attendance has increased, and more children are staying in school throughout the term.
“Before this road, some children had to cross dangerous, muddy areas to get to school. Many dropped out. Now, we’ve seen a sharp increase in our student population,” said a teacher in Nsit Ibom. “Parents are more relaxed, and the children come to school happy.”
Christiana Emmanuel Asuquo, a nursing mother, also testified to the improved access:
“Getting to the health center is no longer stressful. It’s a huge relief compared to how things were.”
For many families, this improved access to education is more than convenience — it’s a hope for a better future.
Reverse Migration and Rising Land Value
In what may be the clearest sign of transformation, the trend of rural-urban migration is reversing. Young people who once left the villages in search of opportunities in Uyo, Calabar, or Lagos are beginning to return.
“People are coming back. Even outsiders are coming in,” said Obong Joseph, the traditional leader of Edeobom. “Igbo traders are buying land, opening shops, and investing. The community is coming alive.”
Land prices have skyrocketed as a result of the improved road. Plots that once sold for ₦500,000 now command prices as high as ₦3 million, signalling strong investor interest and renewed local economic confidence.
This wave of investment has also spurred the construction of new homes, stores, and small warehouses. It’s not just a road—it’s a trigger for holistic development.
Safer, Brighter Communities
With improved connectivity has come better security. Increased vehicular activity, community vigilance, and smoother access have made the area safer, especially at night.
“Now, even if you doze off in the afternoon, the sound of a passing vehicle wakes you up,” joked the village chief. “That’s how much movement and life we have now.”
Hopes for More Infrastructure
Despite all the progress, the community is not resting on its laurels. Residents have identified critical next steps: constructing proper drainage systems, building bridges across nearby rivers, and ensuring routine maintenance to preserve the road’s quality for years to come.
“We are deeply grateful for this road,” said Mr. Effiong Okpom, Village Head of Ikot Nko Road. “But to complete the transformation, we need a drainage system to prevent flooding and a bridge to connect us more efficiently to neighboring communities.”
A Community Ready to Celebrate
The joy is palpable. So moved are the residents that they are considering awarding chieftaincy titles to those who contributed to the project’s success. There is also a plan to officially thank RAAMP, the World Bank, and the state government for their transparency, accountability, and effectiveness.
“This is not like those other projects you hear about—where money disappears and the road is never finished,” said Obong Joseph. “This one was done well, and we are proud.”
Godwin Bassey Okon, a motorcycle rider and trader in palm fruits, expressed his deep gratitude to RAAMP for the excellent road conditions. According to him, the improved road has significantly boosted his business. “The good road has drastically reduced my travel time,” he said, explaining how he can now transport palm fruits from the village farms to the market in nearly half the time it used to take.
Godwin is thrilled with RAAMP’s intervention—and he isn’t alone. The entire community shares in this excitement, as the improved road network has brought tangible benefits to their daily lives. For Godwin, the smoother journey means more trips, fresher produce, and better profits. He looks forward to further leveraging the enhanced infrastructure to grow his trade even more.
More Than a Road
What RAAMP and the Akwa Ibom State Government have delivered is far more than infrastructure. They have built a bridge to progress, a foundation for hope, and a catalyst for sustainable growth.
“Only the blind cannot see what this road has done,” a local resident said. “It has changed everything—for the better.”
