Tinubu Approves Ibom Deep Seaport After Governor Eno’s Request

President Bola Tinubu has approved the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport project in Akwa Ibom State following a request by Governor Umo Eno.

Tinubu announced the approval on Friday during a reception and rally organised in his honour at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

The President was in the state to inaugurate projects executed by the Eno administration.

Responding to Eno’s appeal for the Federal Government to support the long-awaited seaport project, Tinubu acknowledged the governor’s request and subsequently declared, “Okay, it’s approved.”

The announcement followed a pledge by Eno that Akwa Ibom State would deliver two million votes for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 if the Federal Government approved and delivered the project.

Speaking at the event, Eno described the proposed seaport as a major economic project capable of expanding maritime activities, attracting investments and creating employment opportunities in the state.

“Give us Ibom Deep Seaport, we will deliver two million votes. This deep seaport is capable of unlocking the economy of the state, the South-South region and Nigeria at large,” the governor said.

Eno said the project remained one of the most important demands of the people of Akwa Ibom, adding that its completion would strengthen the state’s position in international trade.

He recalled that the project, initially conceived during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah as the Ibaka Deep Seaport and Industrial City, had remained unrealised for decades.

The governor also said the facility would serve as a major transhipment hub, create thousands of jobs and attract international trade and investment.

Tinubu had previously promised to support the establishment of the deep seaport during his 2023 presidential campaign rally in Uyo.

At the time, he referenced the Lekki Deep Seaport in Lagos as an example of the kind of maritime infrastructure he hoped to deliver in Akwa Ibom.

Eno also reaffirmed the state’s support for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, saying its decision to join the All Progressives Congress was aimed at strengthening its relationship with the Federal Government and attracting development.

The President’s announcement marks a major development in the state’s longstanding pursuit of the proposed maritime project.