President Bola Tinubu formally approved the construction of the Ibom Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom State on Friday, saying the venture will spur economic activity, attract investment and boost development across the South‑South geopolitical zone. The announcement was made at an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally held in the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, following a request from Governor Umo Eno.
Key details disclosed at the rally include: the port project received presidential assent after the governor’s appeal; Tinubu linked the approval to his administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure and job creation; the President recalled his earlier decision to upgrade Victor Attah International Airport to international status; and he urged youths to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 elections. The rally also featured remarks from Vice President Kashim Shettima, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, all praising the infrastructure agenda.
What was approved?
The President announced that the federal government will establish the Ibom Deep Sea Port, a deep‑water facility intended to handle cargo shipments and serve as a logistics hub for the region. He described the port as a “major catalyst for economic growth, investment and development” and pledged that it will generate tangible benefits for the people of Akwa Ibom.
Why is the port significant?
Tinubu emphasized that the South‑South region possesses untapped economic potential, especially in agriculture and palm‑oil production. By providing a modern maritime gateway, the port is expected to lower transport costs, open new export markets and stimulate ancillary industries such as warehousing, ship‑repair and tourism.
How does this fit into the President’s broader agenda?
The approval follows Tinubu’s earlier infrastructure moves, notably the commissioning of a new terminal at Victor Attah International Airport, the inauguration of Ring Road 3 and the launch of the Arise Palm Resort. The President linked these projects to a national strategy of “continuity, focused leadership and effective governance” aimed at moving Nigeria out of the “dark tunnel” of fiscal distress that existed when he took office.
What did other leaders say?
Vice President Kashim Shettima thanked the people of Akwa Ibom and the South‑South for their support, while criticizing opposition figures for opposing government policies without offering alternatives. Governor Douye Diri, speaking for the Nigeria Governors Forum, lauded the Lagos‑Calabar Coastal Highway and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as landmark achievements, pledging the backing of all six South‑South governors. Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured Tinubu of continued legislative cooperation and expressed gratitude for the approval of a Federal University of Agriculture, a Federal University of Technology and a Police Academy in the state.
What were the political messages?
Addressing young attendees, Tinubu urged them to secure their Permanent Voter Cards, describing the PVC as “the weapon with which you can defeat tyranny.” He warned that the upcoming 2027 general election on 16 January will determine the country’s future direction. The President also highlighted that, at the start of his tenure, 27 of the 36 state governors were unable to meet salary obligations, a situation he claims has now been resolved.
The approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port marks a pivotal step in Akwa Ibom’s infrastructure roadmap, although the presidential statement did not disclose funding sources, a construction timetable or the date when works will commence.