Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a major boost for trade and logistics in southern Nigeria, Pastor Umo Eno says he has secured official approval for a bonded terminal in Akwa Ibom, following a high-level engagement with the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS.
Tweeting on the development, Governor Eno said, “I secured approval for a bonded terminal in Akwa Ibom State following a visit to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at the Nigeria Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
“This development will streamline trade, reduce the cost of doing business, and position our State as a regional aviation and logistics hub, especially as we prepare for international operations at the Victor Attah International Airport.”
The governor emphasized that the approval is part of the state’s strategic drive to attract investment and boost economic growth.
“I appreciate the Nigeria Customs Service for this approval and reaffirm our commitment to driving economic growth and attracting investment to Akwa Ibom State,” he added.
The establishment of a bonded terminal could significantly reduce import and export bottlenecks, while enhancing revenue generation for both the state and federal government.
“Bonded terminals are key to modernizing logistics infrastructure,” said an industry observer. “This move could position Akwa Ibom as a critical hub for international trade in the region.”
SweetCrude Reports noted that Akwa Ibom state government has been pursuing ambitious plans to upgrade the Victor Attah International Airport to support international flights, a move expected to open the state to broader foreign investment and cargo operations.
Governor Eno’s office confirmed that the terminal approval is part of a broader economic blueprint targeting job creation, revenue diversification, and strengthened trade linkages across West Africa.
“With this approval, our logistics sector is set to witness a transformation that aligns with global best practices,” the governor said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led development.
The bonded terminal is expected to start operations within the next few months, coinciding with ongoing upgrades at the airport.
Investors and stakeholders in the aviation and logistics sectors are closely monitoring the development, with expectations that Akwa Ibom could emerge as a strategic entry point for goods destined for the South-South and other neighboring regions.
