RismadarVoice Reporters, May 6, 2026
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has approved the immediate commencement of a feasibility study for the proposed Azumini–Obeaku Seaport and Inland Waterways Corridor, signalling a renewed push to expand maritime infrastructure in the state.
The approval was granted on Tuesday during a meeting at the Government House with a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, led by Nicolas Liu.
The governor directed the firm to accelerate the study timeline, urging that it be completed within a shorter timeframe than the initially proposed six months.
Otti emphasised the importance of quickly establishing the project’s viability while ensuring all technical and economic considerations are thoroughly examined. He noted that early clarity on requirements would help guide decision-making and implementation.
While authorising the study, the governor also instructed that parallel steps be taken to secure regulatory approvals from key federal bodies, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Presidency.
He acknowledged potential technical challenges tied to the project’s location, estimated to be about 19 nautical miles from the high sea. According to him, this could necessitate extensive dredging, a factor likely to influence overall project costs and feasibility.
Governor Otti further advised that the project team conduct an on-site assessment ahead of the study to obtain accurate technical data and better understand the terrain.
In his remarks, Nicolas Liu said the company is seeking a partnership with the Abia State Government to deliver the seaport project. He highlighted the firm’s experience in Nigeria’s infrastructure sector, including its role in the development of the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
Liu identified key success factors for such large-scale projects, including strong government commitment, sustainable financing models, effective public-private partnership structures, and phased execution plans. He stressed that a comprehensive feasibility study remains critical to determining the project’s viability.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, alongside other top appointees.
