'The Ibom Deep Seaport is one of those critical projects that can unlock enormous opportunities for trade, investment, industrialisation, and job creation.' — Pastor Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom State Governor.
Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno has called for collective support to actualise the Ibom Deep Seaport project, which he says will transform the state's future and create alternatives to oil revenue.
Governor Eno made the call during a dinner held in honour of officials of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in Uyo. The governor disclosed that investors who had previously withdrawn interest in the project have renewed their commitment following recent engagements with the state government.
These engagements included discussions held with potential investors in Paris, which have yielded positive results. Governor Eno expressed optimism that the long-awaited seaport project will soon gain renewed momentum.
However, the governor appealed to stakeholders to put aside sentiments over the location of the project and work together to ensure its successful actualisation. He noted that the Ibom Deep Seaport remains a strategic component of the state's economic diversification agenda.
The project is one of several development initiatives aimed at creating sustainable sources of revenue beyond crude oil. Governor Eno highlighted several ongoing development projects across the state, including the completion of the International Terminal at the Victor Attah International Airport, construction of roads and bridges, expansion of healthcare infrastructure, the delivery of compassionate homes, and investments in public transportation.
The governor also announced that Ibom Air will commence international flights to Accra, Ghana, on June 28, 2026, while discussions are ongoing with Ethiopian Airlines for direct flights to Addis Ababa. This is a significant move towards diversifying Akwa Ibom's economy and reducing reliance on oil revenue.
Governor Eno reaffirmed Akwa Ibom State's support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while expressing appreciation for improved funding to states, which he said has enabled sub-national governments to undertake impactful development projects.
The leader of the RMAFC delegation, Professor Olusegun Adekunle Wright, commended Akwa Ibom State's development strides and prudent management of resources, describing the state as one of Nigeria's most compelling development success stories.
He noted that investments in infrastructure, tourism, and social welfare programmes continue to inspire confidence among investors, development partners, and visitors. Other members of the delegation also praised the state's peaceful environment, quality infrastructure, and hospitality, describing Akwa Ibom as a model for sustainable development and responsible governance.