RismadarVoice Reporters
November 6, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has publicly approved the long-awaited Ibom Deep Seaport project in Akwa Ibom State following an appeal by Governor Umo Eno.
The President announced his decision on Friday during a reception and All Progressives Congress (APC) rally at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Responding to the governor’s request, Tinubu emphasised the importance of infrastructure development in promoting economic growth, creating opportunities and improving living standards.
After acknowledging the appeal for the seaport, the President asked supporters at the stadium whether they would vote before declaring that the project was approved.
The announcement followed Eno’s pledge that Akwa Ibom would deliver two million votes for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 if the Federal Government approved and delivered the project.
The governor described the proposed facility as a major economic priority capable of expanding maritime trade, attracting investment and creating employment opportunities across the South-South region.
He maintained that the seaport would strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position as a potential international shipping and industrial hub.
The Ibom Deep Seaport, previously associated with the proposed Ibaka Deep Seaport and Industrial City, has remained under development planning for decades.
The project was originally conceived during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah and has featured in successive government development plans.
Tinubu had also pledged support for the seaport during his 2023 presidential campaign in Akwa Ibom.
According to the project’s official status information, earlier preparatory activities included land acquisition, environmental impact assessment, technical studies and federal approval of its outline business case.
The project was subsequently listed as being at the full business case and procurement stage.
Friday’s presidential announcement represents a renewed political commitment to advancing the development.
However, details of the construction budget, financing arrangements, procurement timetable and proposed completion date have not been announced.
Tinubu’s visit to Akwa Ibom also involved the inauguration of infrastructure projects undertaken by the Eno administration, including facilities at Victor Attah International Airport and major road projects.
The governor expressed optimism that the seaport would unlock economic opportunities for the state and Nigeria when completed.
The next significant steps will involve translating the presidential announcement into documented implementation arrangements, securing financing and establishing a credible construction timetable.
