RismadarVoice Reporters, April 9, 2026
The long-anticipated Ibom Deep Seaport project has taken a significant step forward following the presentation of its feasibility report to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who reiterated his administration’s determination to see the maritime project come to fruition.
The development was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah, who described the presentation of the report as a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to actualize the seaport initiative.
Governor Eno received the report on Wednesday at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, where he expressed optimism that the project, conceived more than 20 years ago, would soon move closer to implementation. He emphasized that the seaport holds immense potential for transforming the state’s economy and strengthening its position in maritime trade.
Describing the project as a long-term undertaking, the Governor noted that it requires sustained commitment and careful planning. He commended members of the technical committee for their dedication and professionalism in producing the report and outlining a clear roadmap for the project’s execution.
Governor Eno also paid tribute to former state leaders, Arc. Victor Attah, Chief Godswill Akpabio, and Mr. Udom Emmanuel , for their roles in initiating, advancing the seaport vision. He urged stakeholders to set aside political considerations and focus on the collective economic benefits the project promises.
Highlighting actions taken by his administration, the Governor pointed to several key initiatives, including the funding of a comprehensive feasibility study, preparation of investor briefing documents, construction of access roads to the project site, and the completion of geophysical and geotechnical surveys. He also stressed ongoing plans to strengthen connectivity between the state’s land, air, and maritime infrastructure.
According to him, the government will intensify engagement with potential investors and other stakeholders to ensure the project progresses steadily toward execution.
Governor Eno further directed that specialized training programmes be developed to prepare young people in the state for employment opportunities that will arise during both the construction and operational phases of the seaport.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Technical Committee, Mrs. Mfon Usoro, presented the feasibility report, explaining that the Ibom Deep Seaport is designed to boost Nigeria’s port capacity, enhance the ease of doing business, and support industrial growth through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
She added that the project’s linkage with the Ibom Industrial City and the proposed Free Trade Zone will position the seaport as a key transshipment hub in the Gulf of Guinea.
Mrs. Usoro noted that several critical steps have already been completed, including the appointment of programme managers and international transaction advisors, as well as the completion of feasibility studies and financial models. She also revealed that preferred bidders have emerged through a competitive international selection process.
She outlined the next phases of development to include the construction of container terminals, breakwaters, and Navy berths, alongside the preparation of Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), investment promotion activities, and continued regulatory engagement with relevant federal agencies.
Commenting on the milestone, Dr. Umanah said the feasibility report signals the state government’s resolve to move the Ibom Deep Seaport project from the planning stage to full implementation.
He added that the progress reflects deliberate planning, strong political commitment, and a clear vision to position Akwa Ibom as a strategic hub in global maritime commerce.
The event was attended by senior government officials, private sector stakeholders, and representatives of relevant federal agencies, underscoring the broad collaboration supporting the realization of the Ibom Deep Seaport project.
