A’Ibom Seeks FG, Investors’ Collaboration to Realise Ibom Deep Sea Port Project
Okon Bassey in Uyo
Akwa Ibom State Government has called on the federal government and investors to collaborate with the state government in other to realise investment in the Ibom Deep Sea Port project in the state.
Eno said the call is in recognition of the project’s immense economic potential to the nation.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in Uyo, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the Deep Sea Port project.
Eno said: “The Ibom Deep Sea Port remains a priority on our developmental agenda. While the financial requirements are significant, we have placed the project back on the front burner with a defined timeline for its realization. Collaboration with the federal government and private investors is indispensable.”
The governor regretted that while efforts to attract investors had initially yielded promising results, two major investors withdrew due to petitions from the host community.
During the briefing, the governor also highlighted his administration’s focus on the aviation sector, including plans to acquire additional aircraft for the state-owned Ibom Air, complete the terminal building, expand the runway and taxiway, and construct a state-of-the-art medical village.
The governor invited constructive feedback from the public, stressing that“Government is not flawless – far from it. We are open to criticism, but it must be constructive. Condemnation without purpose weighs people down and stalls progress.”
In her presentation, the Chairman of the Ibom Deep Seaport Project, Barr. MfonUsoro, disclosed that both the project’s design and feasibility study are on course to be completed by 2025, with the first phase of operations, featuring two container terminals, slated for commissioning in 2027.
Usoro expressed gratitude to Governor Eno for his unwavering support, noting that while the project experienced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is now back on track.
“We are optimistic that the Ibom Deep Sea Port will become a reality under this administration,” she posited.
The interministerial briefing drew a cross-section of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, non-governmental organizations, women groups, youth representatives, and professional bodies.
It also provided commissioners from the ministries of Works and Fire Service, Economic Development and Lands with an opportunity to outline their achievements and present their goals for the upcoming year.
