President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Ibom Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom State, describing the project as a major catalyst for economic growth, investment and development across the South-South region.
Tinubu announced the approval on Friday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, following a request by Governor Umo Eno.
The President said the decision reflected his administration’s commitment to promoting infrastructure development and expanding economic opportunities across the country’s geopolitical zones.
“Your request for the Ibom Deep Sea Port is hereby approved. The Ibom Deep Sea Port will bring associated economic value and economic development to the people, just as the governor has said,” Tinubu declared.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the approval followed an appeal by Eno, who had described the proposed port as a major development priority for Akwa Ibom.
The governor told the President that the people of the state would remain grateful if the federal government granted the request, citing the potential economic benefits of the project.
Tinubu commended Eno for his administration’s infrastructure development and human capital investments, while emphasising the importance of continuity, focused leadership and effective governance.
He recalled previously approving the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport to international status at the governor’s request, saying the state possessed considerable economic potential that could be unlocked through infrastructure investment and agricultural development.
“There is no reason why Akwa Ibom cannot leverage the value of its palm trees and agricultural produce. There is no reason that we cannot create skills development — skills that are enduring and everlasting,” the President said.
“When your governor requested international status for the airport, I did not hesitate; I approved it. Now, as you do for one, you do for the other.”
Tinubu also urged political leaders and those seeking elective office to approach public service with sincerity, determination and a commitment to improving citizens’ lives.
Addressing young people at the rally, the President encouraged them to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and assess the credibility, performance and track records of candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“You, the youth—do you have your PVCs? That is the weapon with which you can defeat tyranny and reject those deceiving you. The weapon you have is the PVC,” he stated.
Tinubu defended his administration’s economic policies and performance, insisting that Nigeria had made significant progress in overcoming the financial difficulties inherited by his government.
“This coming election on January 16, 2027, is consequential. It will define the direction of this country,” he said.
“When I took office, 27 out of 36 governors in this country were unable to meet salary obligations, let alone pensions and gratuities. Today, I stand before you to say we are out of that dark tunnel.”
The President maintained that his administration had steered the country away from what he described as a period of economic uncertainty and possible bankruptcy.
“I can beat my chest and say we are out of the greatest despair—the dark journey of uncertainty and possible bankruptcy,” he added.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who also addressed the gathering, commended the people of Akwa Ibom and the South-South region for supporting the President and the APC.
Shettima criticised opposition politicians whom he accused of condemning government policies without presenting credible alternatives, urging Nigerians to support leaders prepared to confront national challenges.
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Governors Forum and South-South governors, praised Tinubu’s infrastructure and education initiatives, particularly the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Diri described the coastal highway as a landmark project and pledged the support of governors in the region for the President.
“The Coastal Highway is a masterpiece. No President, living or dead, ever conceived it. All six governors of the South-South are solidly behind you. Carry go,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio similarly commended the six South-South governors for their developmental efforts and support for the APC administration.
Akpabio assured Tinubu of the National Assembly’s continued cooperation, saying lawmakers had provided a strong legislative foundation for the administration’s programmes.
He also thanked the President for approving the establishment of a Federal University of Agriculture, a Federal University of Technology and a Police Academy in Akwa Ibom State.
Earlier during the visit, Tinubu inaugurated several infrastructure projects, including the new Victor Attah International Airport Terminal Building, Ring Road 3 and the Arise Palm Resort.
Ring Road 3 connects Idoro Road to Ikot Ekpene Road through Uyo and Ibiono Ibom, while the Arise Palm Resort occupies approximately 70 hectares.
At a reception held in his honour at the resort, Governor Eno expressed satisfaction with the President’s approval of the deep sea port project, describing himself as fulfilled by the decision.
The President-General of the Akwa Ibom Council of Traditional Rulers and Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, also expressed support for Tinubu’s administration and offered prayers for his success in the forthcoming presidential election.
The approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port marks a significant development in Akwa Ibom’s infrastructure ambitions, although the Presidency’s statement did not specify the project’s funding arrangements, implementation timeline or construction commencement date.
ARISE News
Follow us on:
