Tinubu Approves Ibom Deep-Sea Port at Uyo Rally
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the long-awaited Ibom Deep-Sea Port project in Akwa Ibom State, announcing the decision during a rally in Uyo on Friday, November 6, 2026.
The president made the announcement at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium while responding to a request by Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno.
The approval has renewed expectations that the proposed port could become a major driver of economic growth, trade and employment in Akwa Ibom and the wider South-South region.
Tinubu Announces Approval at Uyo Rally
According to reports by Punch Newspapers and Channels Television, Tinubu announced the approval while addressing residents and supporters gathered at the stadium.
The president acknowledged the governor’s request on behalf of the state’s leadership and declared that the project had been approved.
The announcement came during Tinubu’s visit to Akwa Ibom, where he commissioned projects executed by the state government and participated in political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The president had previously promised support for the proposed port during his 2023 presidential campaign in Uyo.
Governor Eno Links Port to Economic Growth
Governor Umo Eno had appealed to the Federal Government to facilitate the establishment of the deep-sea port, describing it as a significant economic opportunity for Akwa Ibom.
During the rally, Eno said the project could unlock economic potential across the state, the South-South region and Nigeria.
He also pledged that Akwa Ibom would deliver two million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election if the Federal Government supported the port’s development.
The governor described the seaport as a major demand of the state’s people, noting that it could transform the local maritime and industrial economy.
Ibom Deep-Sea Port Project Has Long History
The proposed port, previously associated with the Ibaka Deep-Sea Port and Industrial City project, has been discussed for decades.
The project is expected to support international trade, attract investment and create employment opportunities through maritime activities and related industries.
According to the Akwa Ibom government’s project status page, the project has received Federal Government approval, while land acquisition, environmental assessment and preliminary technical studies have been completed.
The project is listed as being at the Full Business Case and procurement stage, indicating that further development and implementation processes remain necessary.
What the Approval Could Mean for Akwa Ibom
The port could strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position in Nigeria’s maritime economy and potentially improve access to international markets for businesses in the region.
If implemented, it may also stimulate investment in logistics, manufacturing, transportation and other industries connected to port operations.
However, the presidential announcement does not mean construction has been completed or that the facility is ready for commercial operations. Further planning, financing, procurement and construction milestones will determine when the port becomes operational.
The approval marks a significant political and administrative development for a project that has remained a long-standing aspiration for Akwa Ibom.
Residents and stakeholders will now be watching for details on implementation, timelines and the next steps toward delivering the proposed port.
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