By ANTHONY UDOH

Oron Maritime Project Set for December Commissioning as Eno Unveils Four-Ferry Plan

AKWA Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced that his administration plans to commission the Oron maritime infrastructure in December 2026, describing the project as a major investment in coastal transportation, commerce, tourism and economic diversification.

The governor made the announcement on Saturday 17 October, during the October edition of the Government House Monthly Prayer Service at the Latter House Chapel, Government House, Uyo. He said the project would reposition Oron as a strategic commercial centre while creating new opportunities for residents and investors.

Maritime Infrastructure to Drive Coastal Commerce

According to Eno, the project goes beyond the construction of a ferry terminal. Instead, it combines passenger and cargo facilities with supporting infrastructure designed to improve water transportation and stimulate economic activities along the state’s coastal communities.

He explained that the development would encourage private-sector investment, create jobs and promote sustainable livelihoods through the productive use of Akwa Ibom’s marine resources.

Furthermore, the governor said the infrastructure would support fisheries, fish processing, hospitality and coastal tourism. By providing facilities for storing and handling goods, the project is also expected to help reduce post-harvest losses and improve the movement of agricultural and marine products.

The planned facilities include a ferry terminal building, passenger and cargo jetties, a hotel, cold room, warehouse, floating bar, workshop, car park and recreational area. The project will also feature a jetty for the Joint Task Force, which is expected to support maritime security operations.

Four Ferries Planned for Oron-Calabar Route

Beyond the shore-based facilities, Eno disclosed that the state had acquired two newly built ferries measuring 24 metres and 18 metres, respectively. He added that the government expected to acquire two more, bringing the planned fleet to four vessels for operations along the Oron-Calabar route.

The service is intended to improve the movement of passengers and cargo across the coastal corridor. Consequently, residents and businesses could benefit from additional transport options, while improved connections may create opportunities for trade, tourism and related services.

The governor also announced plans to name the ferries after former first ladies of Akwa Ibom State in recognition of their contributions to the state’s development.

However, the project’s wider economic impact will depend on reliable ferry operations, affordable fares, effective maintenance, adequate safety measures and sustained demand from passengers and commercial users.

Government Highlights Other Projects in Oron Axis

Meanwhile, Eno highlighted other infrastructure projects within the Oron area as part of his administration’s development agenda.

He cited the completed Nsit Atai–Okobo–Oron Road project and the ongoing rehabilitation of the 13.5-kilometre Okopedi–Uya Oro Road. According to the governor, these interventions complement the maritime investment by improving road connectivity within the coastal region.

Under the state government’s ARISE Agenda, the administration hopes to diversify the economy by strengthening infrastructure and expanding productive activities beyond traditional revenue sources.

Nevertheless, residents will ultimately measure the success of these projects by their practical benefits, including improved mobility, increased commercial activity, employment opportunities and better access to markets.

APC Plans Campaign Prayer Service for 1st November

In a separate announcement, Eno said the Akwa Ibom State All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council would begin its campaign activities for the 2027 general elections with a prayer session on Sunday 1 November 2026.

The event is scheduled to take place at the International Christian Worship Centre in Uyo. The governor invited residents and political stakeholders to participate in the gathering, which he said would commit the party’s campaign activities to God for guidance and success.

He also thanked Christian leaders and other attendees for their participation in the monthly prayer service and for expressing support ahead of the 2027 elections.

Cleric Calls for Faith, Compassion & Consistent Prayer

Earlier, the General Overseer of Precious Faith International Church, Rev. Emmanuel Iniama, delivered a message titled “For God Is With Us”, drawn from Isaiah 8:9–10.

Iniama urged Christians to remain confident despite life’s difficulties, arguing that faith in God could provide strength, protection and encouragement during challenging periods.

He also advised believers to focus on deepening their relationship with God rather than becoming preoccupied with identifying their enemies. To demonstrate their faith, he encouraged them to reject idolatry, show compassion, practise forgiveness, maintain loving relationships and pray consistently.

The service also featured a scripture reading by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki. Other attendees included Secretary to the State Government Prince Enobong Uwah, members of the State Executive Council, political leaders, business executives, government officials and Christians from across the state.

As the December commissioning target approaches, attention will turn to the project’s readiness and operational plans. For Oron’s communities, the lasting value of the maritime infrastructure will depend not only on its completion but also on whether it delivers accessible transport, stronger local businesses and sustainable economic opportunities.