Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Akwa Ibom State Government has expressed its readiness to partner with United States Government and other investors, in the development of Ibom deep seaport project.
Deputy Governor of the State, Moses Ekpo, made this know when the Chief, Political and Economic Affairs, US Consulate in Nigeria, Mr Brandon Hudspeth, visited him at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.
Ekpo who explained that the seaport was endowed with a natural draught and direct access to all parts of the world, also announced that huge investment opportunities abound in the state for American investors to harness.
The Deputy Governor said the seaport when developed, would become the flagship of the shipping industry in the country, owing to its strategic location.
“The US should take advantage of the enormous business opportunities, especially in the Ibom deep seaport project, which has received approval from the Federal Government.
“The peaceful ambience which Akwa Ibom State offers is the best in Nigeria for investors. ExxonMobil as an American company is already enjoying the state’s favourable ambience.”
Akwa Ibom State Government also charged the US consulate to prevail on ExxonMobil to relocate its headquarters to the state, as a way of encouraging other oil multinationals.
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Ekpo added that the state government was investing heavily in infrastructural development that was compliant with global standard, such as the 21-storey intelligent building under construction.
Earlier, Chief, Political and Economic Affairs, US Consulate in Nigeria, Mr Brandon Hudspeth, explained that he was in the state as part of his tour of the Niger Delta.
Hudspeth disclosed that his visit was a demostration of the US’ interest to invest in the Niger Delta, as it intends to strengthen the relationship between his country and states in the region.
