Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state has stressed that the state government cannot complete the ambitious Deep Sea Port project alone and will require the support of the federal government.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in Uyo, on Monday, December 16, 2024, Eno explained that such a large-scale project is capital-intensive and that the federal government’s collaboration is essential for its success.
“The construction of a Deep Sea Port is costly and would require conscious collaboration with the Federal Government,” said Governor Eno. He added that, despite the high costs involved, the Ibom Deep Sea Port project is now a priority for the state, with a clear timeline set for its completion.
Eno also mentioned that the state has been working to attract investors for the project. However, two investors withdrew after a petition from the local community, highlighting the importance of having the backing of both the federal government and private investors.
“We need the support of the federal government and investors. Although we managed to attract investors, two of them pulled out because of the concerns raised by the host community,” the governor explained.
Aside from the Deep Sea Port, Governor Eno outlined other priorities for his administration, such as plans to expand the aviation sector, including acquiring new aircraft for Ibom Air and building new airport infrastructure.
The governor also used the briefing to share his administration’s achievements over the past 18 months and called for constructive criticism, saying, “Government is not flawless, far from it, we are not afraid of criticism, but it should be constructive criticism.”
Barrister Mfon Usoro, the chairperson of the Ibom Deep Sea Port project, stated that the design and feasibility study for the project should be completed by 2025, with the first phase expected to start in 2027. Usoro thanked Governor Eno for his support and expressed optimism that the project will be completed under his leadership, despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The briefing, attended by traditional rulers, NGOs, women’s and youth groups, provided an opportunity for various state commissioners to present their achievements and plans for the coming year.
