President Bola Tinubu has approved the Ibom Deep Sea Port project in Akwa Ibom, describing it as a major catalyst for economic growth and development across the South-South region.
President Bola Ahmed 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, infrastructure development and prosperity across the South-South region.
The President announced the approval on Friday, November 6, 2026, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, following a request by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno.
Governor Eno had appealed to the President to approve the long-awaited deep sea port project, expressing confidence that its establishment would significantly transform the state’s economy.
Responding, Tinubu declared that the request had been approved, noting that the project would generate substantial economic value and accelerate development in Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.
“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,” the President stated.
Tinubu said the approval reflected his administration’s commitment to bringing development closer to Nigerians across the country’s geopolitical zones.
He also commended Governor Eno for his achievements in infrastructure development and human capital investment, recalling that he had earlier approved the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport to international status at the governor’s request.
The President emphasised the importance of visionary leadership and continuity in governance, adding that focused leadership could overcome societal challenges and unlock economic opportunities.
He identified Akwa Ibom’s agricultural potential, particularly its palm produce, as an area that could generate greater economic value, while advocating sustained investment in skills development.
Tinubu also urged young Nigerians to assess the credibility, track records and commitment of political candidates ahead of the January 2027 general elections, describing their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as powerful instruments for democratic participation.
He highlighted improvements in university operations, economic activities and government finances, claiming that his administration had moved the country away from the economic difficulties it inherited in 2023.
Speaking on the forthcoming elections, the President described the January 16, 2027 polls as consequential, saying they would determine the country’s future direction.
Earlier, Vice President Kashim Shettima commended the people of Akwa Ibom and the South-South region for their support for the Tinubu administration and the APC.
Shettima cautioned Nigerians against being misled by politicians who, according to him, abandon challenges rather than confront them, questioning the opposition’s ability to provide credible alternatives to the government’s policies.
Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Governors Forum and South-South governors, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, praised Tinubu for the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), among other initiatives.
Diri also commended Governor Eno for mobilising a large turnout at the rally and assured the President of the continued support of the six South-South governors.
“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,” Diri said.
Similarly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio applauded the South-South governors for their developmental efforts and support for the APC-led administration.
He said the National Assembly had provided a strong legislative foundation to support the President’s development agenda.
Akpabio also expressed appreciation to Tinubu for approving a Federal University of Agriculture, a Federal University of Technology and a Police Academy for Akwa Ibom State.
At a reception held in the President’s honour at the 70-hectare Arise Palm Resort, Governor Eno described the approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port as a fulfilling moment for his administration and the people of the state.
The President-General of the Akwa Ibom Council of Traditional Rulers and Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, His Eminence Dr. Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, also expressed support for the Tinubu administration and prayed for the President’s success in his second-term ambition.
During the state visit, Tinubu commissioned three major projects: the new Victor Attah International Airport Terminal Building, Ring Road 3, which connects Idoro Road to Ikot Ekpene Road through Uyo and Ibiono Ibom, and the Arise Palm Resort.
The approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port is expected to strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position as a potential maritime and commercial hub, while creating opportunities for investment, trade and employment across the South-South region.
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