Stakeholders Demand Answers On Seaport Location Amid Fresh Investment Drive

By EMEM BENSON

Governor Eno Takes Deep Seaport Talks to Paris

AKWA Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has renewed efforts to advance the long-awaited Ibom Deep Seaport Project, leading a high-level delegation to Paris, France, for strategic discussions with Africa Global Logistics Group and other prospective partners.

The visit, according to the state government, was aimed at accelerating implementation plans for the maritime project, which has remained on the drawing board for more than two decades despite repeated promises and feasibility studies.

Members of the delegation included the Chairman of the Technical Committee on the Ibom Deep Seaport Project and former Director-General of NIMASA, Mrs. Mfon Usoro; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong; Managing Director of Hensek Integrated Services, Engr. Uwem Okoko; and other government officials.

Officials said discussions focused on attracting investment, reviewing implementation strategies, and examining pathways to move the project closer to reality.

Location Controversy Returns to the Forefront

While government officials presented the Paris engagement as evidence of renewed commitment, the trip has also reignited longstanding debates surrounding the actual location of the proposed seaport.

Stakeholders and advocacy groups argue that despite years of planning, the state government has yet to provide definitive answers regarding where the port will ultimately be situated.

The issue has remained contentious since the project was initially conceived during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah.

According to stakeholders, the original concept placed the port at Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area. However, subsequent administrations reportedly explored alternative locations, including Ibeno and later Unyenge in Mbo, creating uncertainty among residents, investors, and development experts.

Advocacy Group Calls for Transparency

The Open Forum advocacy group has renewed calls for greater transparency regarding the project.

Its founder, Matthew Koffi Okono, popularly known as Citizen MKO, urged the government and the implementation committee to publicly clarify the final approved location and explain the technical basis for its selection.

According to him, questions remain unanswered concerning natural water depth, dredging requirements, environmental considerations, operational sustainability, and the findings of various technical assessments conducted over the years.

The group also wants clarification on whether multiple feasibility reports exist and which specific location formed the basis of the Federal Executive Council approval granted in December 2020.

Stakeholders believe these issues must be resolved to strengthen investor confidence and prevent future disputes.

Growing Investor Interest in the Project

Despite the controversy, interest from potential investors appears to be increasing.

Among those reportedly showing interest is the United Infrastructure Systems Consortium, chaired by renowned engineer and environmental scientist Professor Hilary Inyang, which is said to be considering an investment package worth up to $8 billion under a local-content development framework.

Government officials insist that such interest demonstrates the economic potential of the project and validates continued efforts to secure partnerships.

Government Pushes Forward Despite Questions

The Akwa Ibom Government maintains that discussions in Paris reviewed the latest Technical Feasibility Report prepared by Worley Parsons and focused on investment opportunities, project execution plans, and long-term sustainability.

Governor Eno reportedly encouraged stakeholders and partners to establish clear timelines, measurable targets, and practical implementation steps to fast-track the project.

Officials described the Ibom Deep Seaport as a transformational Blue Economy initiative capable of positioning Akwa Ibom as a major maritime, logistics, and trade gateway within the Gulf of Guinea.

Yet for many residents, one question remains central: after decades of studies, negotiations, and political commitments, where exactly will the Ibom Deep Seaport be built, and when will construction finally commence?