Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, appealed to President Bola Tinubu for federal support in developing the Ibom Deep Sea Port, describing the project as a key driver of economic growth for the state, the South-South region, and Nigeria at large.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Leading a high-powered delegation of Akwa Ibom stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and business representatives, Governor Eno made the appeal during a visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The visit was focused on seeking federal intervention in key infrastructural projects vital to the state’s development.
“No state government can build a deep sea port alone. We need the federal government’s support to make this a reality,” Governor Eno stated. He emphasized the potential of the Ibom Deep Sea Port to transform the country’s maritime economy by creating jobs, alleviating pressure on existing ports in Lagos and Rivers State, and expanding Nigeria’s trade opportunities.
The Ibom Deep Sea Port, with a natural depth of 17.2 meters, is set to become the deepest port in Nigeria, ideal for accommodating large cargo vessels. As part of the broader Ibom Industrial City project, the port is expected to attract foreign direct investment and enhance Nigeria’s position as a maritime hub in West Africa.
Governor Eno highlighted that while the Akwa Ibom government had already invested in infrastructure such as access roads, federal support—both in policy and funding—is essential for the completion and operationalization of the port. He further emphasized that the port would unlock new economic opportunities, particularly in exportation, logistics, and manufacturing, significantly contributing to the country’s non-oil revenue.
Eno also took the opportunity to request the President’s intervention in addressing Akwa Ibom’s ecological challenges, particularly gully erosion, which has severely impacted the state. He invited President Tinubu to commission the Arise Resort, an ambitious project designed to reclaim erosion sites.
The delegation included influential figures such as former Governor Udom Emmanuel, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and traditional rulers, who all supported the call for federal involvement in the port project.
In a symbolic gesture, Akwa Ibom’s traditional rulers conferred the title ‘Otuekong’ (Commander-in-Chief) on President Tinubu, recognizing his leadership and urging him to prioritize the completion of the Ibom Deep Sea Port.
Governor Eno expressed optimism that President Tinubu would understand the importance of the project and would consider federal backing for its realization, given his administration’s focus on economic expansion and infrastructure development.
The visit also served as an opportunity to thank President Tinubu for his support of Akwa Ibom and for appointing the state’s indigenes to key federal positions. Governor Eno praised Tinubu’s leadership in navigating the country through economic challenges and urged continued support for reforms as signs of economic recovery begin to emerge.
The meeting, marked by unity across party lines, included members from both the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighting the collaborative approach to governance in Akwa Ibom State.
Former Governor Udom Emmanuel praised the historic unity displayed during the visit, noting that the President’s welcoming response and the involvement of leaders across political divides would foster peace and progress in the state.
