By Christopher Tom, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its commitment to give a permanent solution to the IBB flood problem in the State.
The Commissioner for Environment and Petroleum Resources, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson made this known during the bid closing/opening ceremony for the contract work on the project, held at the Nigerian Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) Office in Uyo.
Barr. Sampson assured that the State Government would continue to partner with world bank and development partners “ to improve the health of the earth” and maintained that the IBB flood contract is a measure that would bring huge relief to the popular IBB way in the heart of Uyo and its environment. He thanked the World Bank, Federal Governmen, NEWMAP and bidders for showing interest in the project explaining that the interest underscores the faith they have in the government and the state and expressed hope that the project will be completed within the Shortest time possible after the award.
Speaking earlier, the State Project Coordinator NEWMAP, Dr. Ubong Harrison who described the ceremony as an important milestone in the State towards providing a lasting solution to the flooding problem at IBB Way and it’s environs assured that the exercise is going to give all the companies a level playing field to be selected and choosen adding that the company with the right capacity that will give a permanent solution in accordance to the designed description shall emerge the winner of the bid.
The National Project Co-ordinator NEWMAP, represented by Engr. Jehu Macven said he is to ensure that the processes are followed according to the World Bank guidelines and that the best company qualified will give permanent solution to flood problem. He pleaded that quality time be given to the work to facilitate speedy completion.
In his remark, the immediate past Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, presently the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Iniobong Essien noted that the state government has given serious attention to the IBB flood site and others in the State.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Pharm. Mbuk Inyang assured all bidders that due process will be followed in the event.
Also present in the Ceremony was the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko, the Accountant General, Pst. Uwem Essien, the State Surveyor General, Mrs. Emem Esang and other Directors in the Ministry.
