President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the proposed Ibom Deep-Sea Port and the conversion8 of Victor Attah International Airport in Akwa Ibom State into a fully operational international airport.
Tinubu made the announcement on Friday during a political rally held in his honour at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where he received requests from the state government for the two major infrastructure projects.
The President recalled his 2023 campaign visit to the stadium, when he promised to support the establishment of a deep-sea port in Akwa Ibom, drawing comparisons with the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which was developed during his tenure as Lagos State Governor.
Confirming the approval, Tinubu said the request for the project had been presented by Governor Umo Eno on behalf of the people and leadership of the state.
“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,” he said.
The approval came after Governor Eno pledged to secure two million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, linking the commitment to Federal Government support for the proposed seaport.
Eno said the project would open up new economic opportunities for Akwa Ibom, stimulate commercial activities across the South-South and strengthen Nigeria's broader economy.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also approved the state government's request to upgrade Victor Attah International Airport to international standards, a move expected to strengthen air connectivity and support economic activities.
Beyond the infrastructure commitments, the President promised increased attention to education, vocational training, employment generation and economic development in the state.
He identified palm produce as another area with significant investment potential, urging Akwa Ibom to maximise its agricultural resources through cultivation, processing and the development of related industries.
Tinubu maintained that sustainable development should translate into practical economic benefits for residents through job creation, skills acquisition and expanded business opportunities.
He concluded by urging the people to support Governor Eno's leadership and encouraging eligible residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and exercise their voting rights.
