The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed the Rural Access Roads Authority Bill, 2025 into law.

The legislation, which garnered unanimous support during its final reading, establishes a specialized Authority responsible for the planning, construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of rural access roads across the state.

The Executive Bill, sponsored by House Leader Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo (Odukpani), was introduced on April 8 and passed its second reading on May 8, 2025.

It was then referred to the House Committee on Transport and Marine Services for detailed review.

Presenting the committee’s report, Chairman, Victor Nsa (Calabar South 2), highlighted the pivotal role rural roads play in driving economic growth, facilitating trade, boosting agricultural output, and enhancing the quality of life in underserved communities.

Nsa noted that recurring issues such as substandard construction, poor maintenance, and inadequate funding have undermined the effectiveness of rural road networks.

He emphasised that the newly established authority is designed to tackle these issues by overseeing the full lifecycle of Class C and D roads, encompassing design, development, maintenance, and associated infrastructure like bridges, drainage systems, and road furniture.

“Structured into six parts and 39 sections, the new law aims to connect rural farmers to markets, improve access to agricultural inputs, and drive income generation and food security,” he said.

Other lawmakers also supported the bill, underscoring the importance of providing farmers and rural dwellers with reliable transport links to boost their livelihoods.

Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem commended the Transport Committee, the bill’s sponsor, and fellow legislators for their dedication to fast-tracking the process.

He also lauded the Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, for his steadfast commitment to rural development.

The bill had earlier received widespread backing during its public hearing, where stakeholders praised it as a practical reflection of the Governor’s

“People First” agenda aimed at uplifting rural communities across the state.