Governor Umo Eno has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to fast-track the long-delayed Ibom Deep Seaport project, describing it as a key driver of economic diversification for Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at a dinner in Uyo hosted in honour of officials of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the governor said the proposed seaport remains central to the state’s long-term economic transformation plan, particularly in trade expansion, industrial growth, and job creation.

Eno disclosed that investor interest in the project, which had previously slowed, has been revived following recent engagements with potential partners. He noted that discussions held in Paris produced encouraging outcomes, adding that momentum is gradually returning to the project.

He explained that the Ibom Deep Seaport is designed to reduce reliance on oil revenues and position the state as a major logistics and trade hub in the region. According to him, the administration is working to ensure all bottlenecks affecting progress are addressed.

“We are doing everything possible to create alternatives to oil and position Akwa Ibom for long-term economic prosperity,” he said, urging stakeholders to set aside disagreements over the project’s location and focus on its delivery.

The governor also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development across the state, including roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, and housing projects, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the economy.

He further announced that state-owned Ibom Air is set to begin international operations to Accra, Ghana, on June 28, 2026, with plans underway for additional routes, including discussions with Ethiopian Airlines for services to Addis Ababa.

In their remarks, RMAFC delegates commended Akwa Ibom’s infrastructure drive and investment climate, describing the state as one of Nigeria’s strongest examples of structured development and governance.