– Says Ibom seaport will boost trade, economic growth, create jobs
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The people of Akwa Ibom State, led by Governor Umo Eno, have again renewed their appeal for federal government support to fast-track the Ibom Deep Seaport project, emphasizing its potential to boost trade, attract investment, and position Nigeria as a maritime hub in West Africa.
SweetCrude Reports had on June 13th, 2023, reported the visit of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to President Bola Tinubu where he sought the support of the federal government on the development of Ibom deep seaport and a free zone license for the state.
Again, Governor Eno yesterday led a 104-member delegation of Akwa Ibom State elites on a historic visit to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where he stressed that the seaport was a game-changing project that will transform Akwa Ibom and contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.
Members of the delegation include Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Governor Udom Emmanuel, religious leaders, traditions rulers, women and youth groups, as well as prominent political figures from across party lines, highlighting a rare display of unity and bipartisan collaboration in the state for the seaport project.
“I expressed our gratitude to the President for his support and presented three critical requests: the need for urgent federal intervention to address devastating ecological challenges, a refund of billions spent on disaster management, and most importantly, federal backing to fast-track the Ibom Deep Seaport project.
“We seek federal support to fast-track the development of the Ibom Deep Seaport, a project that will revolutionize trade and investment, not just in our state, but in Nigeria as a whole. This is key to unlocking economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians,” Gov Eno said.
President Tinubu, in his response, acknowledged the importance of the deep seaport project, affirming that the federal government would look into the requests presented by Governor Eno.
“You have a very good governor, one who has the fear of God and love for his people. I have been following developments in the state, and I am impressed with the progress being made. We must work together to build the nation,” Tinubu said, signaling his readiness to collaborate on key projects in Akwa Ibom.
Governor Eno further invited the President to visit Akwa Ibom in May 2025 to commission the Arise Resorts and Road Projects, an initiative aimed at turning erosion-ravaged areas into world-class destinations.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who was part of the delegation, commended Governor Eno for promoting unity and harmony in the state, stating that Akwa Ibom’s entire political leadership is committed to reconciliation and progress.
“This bipartisan gathering demonstrated our unity and shared vision for Akwa Ibom’s development,” Governor Eno added.
During the visit, the Akwa Ibom State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred President Tinubu with the state’s highest traditional title, “Otuekong,” meaning Commander-in-Chief of Akwa Ibom State.
