The Ibom Deep Seaport is a critical component of Governor Eno’s vision for a diversified and sustainable economy in Akwa Ibom State. The Governor has, since assumption of office, shown exceptional commitment to the actualization of the project in view of its status as a catalyst to unlocking the economic potential of the State.
Barring any last-minute alteration, Governor Umo Eno will flag off the first phase of the construction of the Ibom Deep Seaport next year, as disclosed by the Chairman of the Technical Committee handling the project, Mrs. Mfon Paul Usoro.
Speaking at the last Exco Ministerial briefing held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, Mrs. Usoro revealed that both the design and feasibility study of the project are expected to be completed by 2025, paving the way for the flag-off in 2026.
She said the Governor has been committed to the actualization of the seaport project and that, a lot of foundational successes, including the obtaining of approval from the Federal Government by the last administration of Mr Udom Emmanuel had been recorded.
She said going by the Governor’s commitment, dredging, breakwater, land reclamation and possibly, a container terminal, one liquid bulk terminal, should be constructed as part of set achievements in the first phase.
This, she said will be achieved after finalizing feasibility study reports, incorporation of a Port Development Management Committee, negotiating of final concession with the Nigerian Port Authority, selection of a construction company, regularisation of a Free Zone licence, and construction of the City gate and sales centre at Mbo next year.
Governor Eno, also speaking at the Ministerial review, emphasized that the financial estimates involved in the construction of a Deep Seaport are capital-intensive, such that no sub-national can single-handedly finance a project of such magnitude without the support and partnership of the Federal Government and investors.
He stated that his administration considers the Ibom Deep Seaport a critical investment project that must be accomplished, given its potential to reposition the economy of the State, create jobs, and generate wealth for the people.
Governor Eno disclosed that his administration is already constructing an access road to the Port, a key infrastructural component needed before the commencement of construction work. This shows the Governor’s commitment to laying the necessary groundwork for the project’s success.
The Governor said he is optimistic that his administration will get all the necessary support and collaboration needed from the federal government as President Bola Tinubu was favourably disposed to assisting the State in whatever way possible towards achieving the vision of the Deep Seaport.
When completed, the seaport will not only enhance the State’s economic competitiveness but also provide a platform for the development of ancillary industries, such as shipbuilding, logistics, and warehousing, and is expected to generate approximately over 100,000 job opportunities through its value chain.
The Governor’s utmost desire is to create a business-friendly environment for private sector investments in Akwa Ibom State. His focus is largely on fixing the economy and creating an environment that encourages investments in relevant sectors.
Governor Eno believes that the government alone cannot provide jobs for all those who need them, but it can stimulate an environment where a large volume of employers can participate in growing the economy and employing the people.
Also, the donation of 14 patrol gunboats by Governor Umo Eno to the Nigerian Navy for the protection of the state’s waterways is a strategic move aimed at enhancing security and fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
These gunboats will play a crucial role in safeguarding the Ibom Deep Seaport and other critical maritime infrastructure, thereby ensuring the safe passage of goods and personnel.
The seaport will also provide a much-needed alternative to the congested Lagos ports, reducing cargo clearance times and costs for importers and exporters in the South-South and South-East regions. This, in turn, will stimulate economic growth, increase trade, and establish Akwa Ibom State as a major player in the regional maritime industry.
Also, the Governor’s approach to ensuring actualization is evident in his provision of new, befitting office space at the 21-story Dakadda Towers for the Technical Committee overseeing the project’s implementation.
The Governor’s commitment to the actualization of the Ibom Deep Seaport, therefore, is a significant step towards unlocking the economic potential of Akwa Ibom State.
By Ekemini James
