The Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified efforts to attract investors to the Ibom Deep Seaport project, describing it as central to its strategy to expand maritime trade and reposition the state within Nigeria’s coastal economy.
Governor Umo Eno said the administration is opening discussions with private and foreign investors to fast track the development of the long proposed port infrastructure. He noted that the project is designed to unlock the state’s coastal assets and stimulate economic activity linked to shipping, logistics and industrial growth.
According to the governor, the renewed investment drive reflects a deliberate shift towards partnership based development, with government providing policy support while the private sector supplies capital and operational expertise. He acknowledged that progress on the project has been slowed by limited investor participation in the past.
The Ibom Deep Seaport is projected to serve as a major maritime hub in the South South region. Officials believe it could reduce pressure on existing ports in other parts of the country while opening new channels for exports and imports.
Beyond cargo handling, the state government says the project forms part of a broader plan to grow the blue economy, with opportunities in fisheries, marine services and coastal tourism. Authorities argue that successful delivery of the seaport would create jobs, attract auxiliary industries and strengthen internally generated revenue.
While timelines remain dependent on investor commitments, the government maintains that preparatory groundwork has been undertaken and that discussions with potential partners are ongoing.
