The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Friday, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to support the development of the Ibom Deep Sea Port, describing it as a game changer for the state, the South-South region, and Nigeria’s economic growth.
Governor Eno appealed when he led a high-powered delegation of Akwa Ibom stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and business representatives, to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The visit aimed at seeking federal government intervention in key infrastructural projects critical 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. The Ibom Deep Sea Port has the potential to transform not just Akwa Ibom but the entire country by expanding our maritime economy, creating jobs, and reducing pressure on existing ports in Lagos and Rivers State,” Governor Eno said.
The Ibom Deep Sea Port, with a natural depth of 17.2 meters, is set to be the deepest in Nigeria, making it suitable for handling large cargo vessels.
The project, which is part of the Ibom Industrial City, is expected to attract foreign direct investment, boost trade, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West Africa.
Governor Eno explained that while the Akwa Ibom government has already made significant investments in the project, including the construction of access roads and other supporting infrastructure, the federal government’s partnership is crucial to completing and operationalizing the port.
“We are already building roads leading to the deep sea port, and we have provided other necessary infrastructure. However, for this project to come to fruition, we need federal government backing, both in terms of policy support and funding.”
The governor emphasized that once completed, the Ibom Deep Sea Port will open up new economic opportunities, particularly in exportation, logistics, and manufacturing, and significantly contribute to the country’s non-oil revenue.
“This port will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs for our people. It will also ease congestion at existing ports, improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business, and serve as a gateway for international trade.”
Governor Eno also used the opportunity to seek the President’s intervention in addressing Akwa Ibom’s ecological challenges and infrastructure development.
“We have so many ecological issues—gully erosion is almost consuming even the Government House. But we embarked on an ambitious project to reclaim an erosion site and turn it into a resort – the Arise Resort. I have invited Mr. President to commission this project, and we have asked for federal intervention.”
The delegation included key Akwa Ibom stakeholders, such as former Governor Udom Emmanuel, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and traditional rulers, who all threw their weight behind the request for federal intervention in the project.
“This is not just about Akwa Ibom; this is about Nigeria’s economic future. A functioning deep sea port in the South-South will reduce dependence on Lagos ports and create alternative shipping routes,” a delegation member stated.
As a symbolic gesture of support, Akwa Ibom traditional rulers conferred the title ‘Otuekong’ (Commander-in-Chief) on President Tinubu, recognizing his leadership and urging him to prioritize the completion of the port.
Eno expressed optimism that President Tinubu would consider the request, given his administration’s focus on economic expansion and infrastructure development.
He also extended an invitation to the President to visit Akwa Ibom, where he could see the progress of the port and other key projects firsthand.
“We are confident that Mr. President understands the importance of this project, and we look forward to working closely with the federal government to make it a reality.”
Eno said the visit was aimed at appreciating the President’s support for Akwa Ibom State, strengthening ties with the federal government, and seeking intervention in key developmental projects.
“Part of our visit was to thank Mr. President for standing by our son, distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, as the Senate President of the 10th Senate, and appointing our sons and daughters into the federal government.
Principal among them is the Honorable Minister for Petroleum Gas, and other appointments he has graciously given to Akwa Ibom indigenes,” he stated.
Eno also commended Tinubu’s leadership, particularly in navigating the country through economic challenges. He noted that while the President inherited a difficult economy, his bold reforms are beginning to show positive results.
“To lead the people is never an easy task. When the President took over, the economy was down. But we have to encourage him to continue on these reforms as we begin to see signs of recovery. When you encourage leaders, they do more. That’s why we came as Akwa Ibom leaders, to also show the peaceful nature of our people.”
In a show of unity, the delegation included past and present leaders from both the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), demonstrating a collaborative approach to governance in the state.
“Today, you saw most of our past leaders, distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, His Excellency Deacon Udom Emmanuel, myself, and others, working together to ensure sustainable growth for Akwa Ibom State.”
Also speaking after the meeting, former Governor Udom Emmanuel praised Tinubu’s welcoming disposition, describing the visit as a historic show of unity among Akwa Ibom leaders.
“Mr. President opened his doors, welcomed us with open arms, and made one statement that answered all questions—he said he is a member of the Akwa Ibom family.”
Udom lauded Governor Eno for successfully bringing together leaders across party divides, stating that such unity fosters peace and progress in the state.
“This is unprecedented. Once there is unity, there is peace, and peace brings progress. I am impressed that almost all our past leaders, senators, and National Assembly members, past and present, were here. This is a great step forward.”
