Akwa Ibom Ferry Project Nears Completion, Set For June Delivery
Akwa Ibom Government Confirms Progress on 64-Seat Passenger Ferry
Officials Inspect Vessel at Naval Shipyard
THE Akwa Ibom State Government has confirmed significant progress on the construction of its 64-seat passenger and cargo ferry, with delivery expected before the end of June.
A state delegation led by the Delivery Adviser on the project, Hon. Orman Esin, alongside the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Koko Essien, inspected the vessel during an unscheduled visit to the Nigerian Navy Shipyard in Port Harcourt.
The delegation said the project had reached about 80 per cent completion and remained on course for delivery in line with Governor Umo Eno’s promise to revive marine transportation in the state.
Nigerian Navy Assures June Test Run
Speaking during the inspection, the Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard, Rear Admiral Ikenna Ubani, assured the team that the vessel would be ready for test operations in June.
According to him, major installations on the ferry have already been completed, while only finishing works remain outstanding.
He disclosed that works currently ongoing include installation of navigation and communication systems, bridge control consoles, electrical wiring, plumbing, ventilation, solar facilities, and loading ramps.
The shipyard also confirmed that the ferry would undergo final technical checks before deployment to Akwa Ibom State.
Boost for Marine Economy and Coastal Transport
Officials said the vessel would operate from the Oron Marine Terminal and is expected to strengthen transportation, commerce, and tourism within coastal communities.
The ferry is designed to carry up to 64 passengers and seven vehicles simultaneously, making it one of the major marine transportation investments currently undertaken by the state government.
The inspection team also reviewed integration plans between the ferry and ongoing jetty infrastructure projects in Oron to ensure smooth operational deployment.
Marine Training Initiative Underway
The visit also highlighted the state government’s marine manpower development initiative.
One of the trainees sponsored by the government, Aniebiet Brendan from Etinan Local Government Area, said he emerged through a transparent recruitment process conducted via the state’s ARISE Portal.
He expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to pursue training as a marine engineer.
Officials further disclosed that a second ferry being constructed by Hydromarine Boat Services Limited in Lagos is also nearing completion for deployment to the Oron Marine Terminal.
