Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has announced plans to revive maritime infrastructure in the state as part of efforts to grow the blue economy. The governor spoke at the maiden Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit held in Ikot Ekpene on Tuesday, where he highlighted his administration’s commitment to multi-billion naira marine infrastructure projects.
Represented by Mr Uko Udom, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Governor Eno said the projects are aimed at enhancing maritime transportation and stimulating commercial activities along the maritime corridor. He added that fully harnessing the blue economy would generate substantial employment opportunities.
Eno noted that his administration was focused on actualising the Ibom Deep Seaport project, affirming that all necessary regulations, certifications, and approvals had been obtained. “Ibom Deep Seaport is not going to be a white elephant project. Work has gone very far,” he said.
In his keynote address, Mr Mehdi Jomaa, former Prime Minister of Tunisia, emphasised that investing in the blue economy is vital for Africa’s sustainable development, urging leaders to view the sector as a new chapter for continental growth.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by Rear Admiral Sunday Atakpa, described the summit as strategic and timely, noting that sustainable development of the Niger Delta is closely linked to effective governance and security within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
