Akwa Ibom State, located in Nigeria’s South-South region, is actively pursuing the development of the Ibom Deep Seaport, a project deemed crucial for the state’s economic growth and the overall development of the region. Governor Umo Eno, leading a delegation of stakeholders, recently met with President Bola Tinubu to solicit the federal government’s support and partnership in realizing this ambitious project. The governor emphasized the strategic importance of the deep seaport, highlighting its potential to alleviate congestion at existing ports, particularly in Lagos, and serve as a major maritime hub for the South-South and Southeast regions. He underscored the state’s commitment to the project, citing ongoing infrastructure development such as road construction leading to the proposed port site. However, Governor Eno acknowledged the significant financial undertaking involved in constructing a deep seaport, stressing the necessity of federal government collaboration and support to bring the project to fruition.
The Ibom Deep Seaport is envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility with a natural draft of approximately 17.5 meters, capable of accommodating large vessels and handling diverse cargo types, including containers, dry bulk, and liquid cargo. This depth is a significant advantage, positioning the port to handle larger vessels and a greater volume of trade than many existing ports in the region. The project is structured as a public-private partnership, with the Nigerian Ports Authority representing the federal government’s interest, alongside the Akwa Ibom State Government and private investors. Despite receiving approval for the Outline Business Case in 2015, the project has faced delays, prompting the current administration to renew its appeal for federal intervention and expedite its development. The governor’s visit with President Tinubu served to reiterate the state’s commitment and seek the necessary support to propel the project forward.
Beyond the deep seaport, Governor Eno also sought presidential intervention in addressing pressing ecological challenges confronting the state. He specifically highlighted the devastating effects of gully erosion, which poses a threat even to the government house. To combat this environmental menace, the state government has embarked on an extensive land reclamation project, transforming a previously eroded site into a resort now known as the Arise Deport. Governor Eno extended an invitation to President Tinubu to commission this significant project, showcasing the state’s proactive approach to environmental remediation and sustainable development. The invitation also served as a platform to request further federal assistance in tackling the ongoing ecological challenges, reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts to mitigate environmental risks and promote sustainable practices.
The delegation, representing a broad spectrum of Akwa Ibom society, included prominent figures such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a former governor of the state, former Governor Udom Emmanuel, lawmakers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives from youth and women’s groups. This diverse representation underscores the widespread support for the deep seaport project and the state’s commitment to fostering inclusive development. During the visit, the traditional rulers conferred upon President Tinubu the chieftaincy title of “Otuekong,” meaning Commander-in-Chief, signifying the state’s recognition of his leadership and its commitment to collaborative governance. This gesture further strengthens the ties between the state and the federal government, paving the way for continued cooperation on key development initiatives.
Governor Eno attributed the harmonious relationship between him and his predecessors to divine grace and a shared commitment to the state’s progress. He emphasized the importance of humility and respect in fostering smooth transitions and ensuring continuity in governance. This emphasis on respectful collaboration highlights the state’s political maturity and its dedication to prioritizing the collective good over individual ambitions. He pointed to Akwa Ibom’s history of peaceful leadership transitions since 1999 as a testament to the state’s political stability and its focus on sustained development. This consistent pursuit of progress, regardless of leadership changes, has contributed to the state’s overall growth and its reputation for effective governance.
Furthermore, Governor Eno underscored the significance of seeking divine guidance in leadership. He emphasized the importance of prayer and seeking wisdom, attributing the state’s successes to divine grace and the collective dedication of its people. This focus on spiritual guidance reflects the deep-seated religious values of the state and its belief in the power of faith to inspire positive change. By invoking the state’s namesake, “Akwa Abasi Ibom State” (Land of God), Governor Eno affirmed the state’s dedication to God and its belief in divine direction as a guiding principle in its pursuit of progress and harmony. This spiritual grounding serves as a unifying force, fostering a sense of shared purpose and encouraging collaborative efforts towards achieving the state’s developmental goals.
