President Bola Tinubu has officially granted presidential approval for the construction of the Ibom Deep Seaport project in Akwa Ibom State.
The announcement followed a direct appeal by Governor Umo Eno during a civic reception and rally held in Uyo.
Addressing thousands of residents at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the president declared that economic infrastructure must drive inclusive growth and create tangible regional value.
A Major Breakthrough for Regional Maritime Trade
The approval clears a major political hurdle for a maritime facility designed to become a transshipment hub for West and Central Africa.
Plans for the facility center on a natural deep-water draft capable of accommodating ultra-large modern container vessels.
State officials have long argued that the project will unlock industrial zones across the South-South region.
The seaport is designed to ease chronic cargo congestion at existing western ports while expanding export capacity for agricultural produce, manufactured goods, and petroleum derivatives.
Dual Infrastructure Approvals in Uyo
Alongside the seaport decision, the president approved the full transition of Victor Attah International Airport into a certified international gateway.
The airport upgrade is intended to integrate aviation freight directly with surrounding industrial and logistics free zones.
Governor Eno described both approvals as the most critical economic milestones for the state in decades.
He noted that regional leaders are targeting accelerated industrialisation, logistics employment, and foreign direct investment to support young professionals across coastal communities.
Political Momentum and Project Execution
The presidential endorsement fulfills a major infrastructure pledge originally made during campaign visits in 2023.
During the reception, Governor Eno assured the federal government that the state remains committed to national collaboration to ensure smooth execution.
Federal maritime authorities and technical transaction advisers are now expected to conclude financing arrangements and final concessions.
With formal approval established, economic observers expect construction timelines and private-sector partnerships to advance rapidly in the coming months.
