President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the proposed Ibom Deep-Sea Port project and the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport in Akwa Ibom State to full international airport status.
The President announced the approvals on Friday while addressing residents at a rally held in his honour at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The approvals fulfil key requests presented by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who had sought Federal Government support for the two major infrastructure projects.
Tinubu recalled making a similar commitment during his 2023 presidential campaign rally at the same stadium, when he promised to facilitate the establishment of a deep-sea port in the state. He referenced the Lekki Deep Sea Port, developed during his tenure as Lagos State Governor, as a model for the proposed Ibom project.
Responding to Governor Eno’s appeal, the President declared: “I heard from my friend, my governor, my pastor, on behalf of the people and leadership of Akwa Ibom, a request for Ibom’s deep-sea port. Ibom Deep-Sea Port. It’s approved.”
The announcement followed Governor Eno’s pledge that Akwa Ibom would deliver two million votes for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 if the Federal Government approved and supported the delivery of the deep-sea port project.
“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,” Eno had declared.
On aviation infrastructure, Tinubu also confirmed approval of the state government’s request to upgrade Victor Attah International Airport to international airport status, a development expected to strengthen connectivity, facilitate investment and expand economic opportunities.
The President further assured the people of Akwa Ibom of his administration’s commitment to improving their economic prospects through investments in education, skills acquisition, employment generation and industrial development.
He particularly highlighted the enormous economic potential of palm produce, urging the state to harness its agricultural resources through value addition, processing and sustainable skills development.
“There is no reason why Akwa Ibom cannot use the value of palm trees and the palms here. There is no reason that we cannot create skills, developmental skills, that are enduring and everlasting,” he said.
Tinubu noted that the proposed deep-sea port would serve as a major economic catalyst, creating jobs, attracting investments and stimulating development across Akwa Ibom, the South-South region and Nigeria.
He emphasised that economic development must be inclusive and translate into tangible improvements in the lives and livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
The President also urged Akwa Ibom residents to support Governor Umo Eno’s leadership, encouraging them to follow his direction and heed his guidance in advancing the development of the state.
He equally called on eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the democratic process.
