The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has pledged over ₦20 million to kick-start the construction of the proposed Abanyom International Market in Ikom Local Government Area, describing the project as a strategic step toward transforming the area into a major commercial hub.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Ayambem explained that the development of a thriving market cannot be the effort of one individual. According to him, markets are established through collective commitment that combines spiritual, social, and physical foundations.
He noted that the presence of traditional leaders, chiefs, and the clan head at the ceremony signified that the community had given its spiritual consent for the market to stand.
Ayambem recalled his earlier consultation with the clan head of Abanum–Abangok, where he shared his vision of establishing a new market that would eventually attract government investment.
“I told the clan head that I may not have the resources to build the entire market alone, but I can start something that will attract government intervention. Once traders relocate here and the market begins to grow, it becomes the strongest case for the state government to step in and develop it fully,” he said.
The Speaker announced that he had earlier donated ₦10 million to commence the project and would credit an additional ₦10 million to the same account to ensure immediate work begins.
He described the Abanyom Internati
onal Market as potentially the largest market in the Ikom area, noting that its size and location give it the capacity to surpass the existing township market once fully developed.
Ayambem said the vision is to create a commercial centre that would attract traders from surrounding communities and neighbouring areas, including Kimiriro, thereby strengthening local commerce and economic activity.
Calling for unity among the people of Bakor, the Speaker emphasized that development can only come when the community speaks with one voice. He stressed that his primary focus as a lawmaker remains the unity and development of Bakkor land.
Ayambem also highlighted several projects he has executed across the constituency, including classroom blocks, road grading, community halls, and other infrastructure, which he described as part of responsible representation.
On the structure of the new market, the Speaker explained that local ownership would be encouraged, with community members acquiring and developing shop spaces while government collects regulatory tolls.
The Speaker praised Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his support toward development initiatives in the constituency and expressed confidence that the state government under the current governor whom he described as “Peoples First Governor” would eventually take over and expand the market project. He called on his people to give the current government unwavering support ahead of the 2027 election.
Ayambem further assured the community that once the initial phase is completed and traders begin to relocate, he will formally present the project to the governor with documented evidence of progress to secure full government intervention.
Describing the market as a personal commitment to the people, he noted that the project also fulfils the vision of the late Hon. Tidelis Nandi, whose dream was to see a modern market established in Abanum.
The Speaker urged residents to support the initiative and protect the project, expressing optimism that the market would become a lasting legacy for the community and a catalyst for economic growth in Ikom Local Government Area.
Speakers at the event, including the Vice Chairman of Ikom Local Government Council, Hon. Maurice Ndoma, Hon. Asinya Ekpa, Mr. Smart Nnangbe, Hon. Nsed Ayambem, Mr Victor Ndoma and several traditional rulers, praised the initiative and described it as a landmark project capable of improving the economic fortunes of Ikom.
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