Yala, Cross River – Ukelle, a community in the Northern part of Cross River State, which borders with Benue and Abakaliki has over the years been recognised by local traders as the hub for commercial activities.
This connection and recognition have further strengthened the tides between the neighbouring states. Known always for its agricultural activities, the communities within this region produce lots of farm products such as yam, garri, potatoes, rice and lots more!
Ukelle North has one of the largest markets in Yala Local Government and has been contributing immensely to the state’s IGR.
Since the creation of Yala on August 27, 1999, and the existence of Northern Ukelle in the 1800s, the major problem has been the lack of accessible roads.
According to Bound Nig. Limited, a construction company, “Ukelle Road, which stretches from Yahe to Benue State, is 40km long.”
Further, one of the contractors revealed that the road is not a state road, so constructing this road by the state government may not be visible. This has resulted in awarding the road in batches of kilometres by the present government of Prince Bassey Edet Otu.
Speaking with one of the traders from Abakaliki, she narrated her ordeal and how sometimes it is almost impossible for them to come to the market. “Most times when we consider the bad road network, we feel reluctant to come to the market. We send money to trustworthy hands who help us to buy products in the market.”
She further pleaded that if the government can assist in the road construction, it will help to address this issue with utmost attention.
It is necessary, therefore, for both the state and federal governments to work in synergy to bring about a holistic approach to this bottleneck bedevilling the community.
This will further build a constant hub for trade and investment to strife effectively.