President Bola Tinubu has approved the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport project in Akwa Ibom State, following a request by Governor Umo Eno during his visit to the state on Friday, November 6, 2026.
Tinubu announced the approval at the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally held in his honour at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The President, who was in the state to commission projects executed by the Eno administration, said the proposed seaport would generate economic value, attract investment and promote development across the South-South region.
Responding to the governor’s request, Tinubu declared, “Your request for the Ibom Deep Sea Port is hereby approved.”
The approval followed a pledge by Governor Eno that Akwa Ibom State would deliver two million votes for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 if the Federal Government approved the project.
Eno described the seaport as a major economic priority for the state, saying it would serve as an international transhipment hub, create thousands of jobs and open up Akwa Ibom to international trade and investment.
The governor explained that the project, initially conceived as the Ibaka Deep Seaport and Industrial City during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah, had remained unrealised for decades despite featuring in successive political campaigns.
He expressed appreciation to Tinubu for granting the request, describing the approval as a significant step towards the state’s economic development.
The President also approved the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport to international standards, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, job creation, education and skills acquisition.
The Ibom Deep Seaport is expected to strengthen maritime activities, attract businesses and expand economic opportunities in Akwa Ibom and the wider South-South region. However, a construction commencement date and implementation details were not announced.
