By Solomon OKPO.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its dedication to harnessing the vast opportunities within the blue economy and enhancing maritime development. This commitment was emphasized by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port, Comrade Ini Ememobong, during a courtesy visit by the Akwa Ibom Oil and Gas Professionals to his office on Thursday, March 13.
Comrade Ememobong highlighted the government’s resolve to leverage the state’s coastal advantages, citing the recent commissioning of the Sure Protections project and the development of Sure Lines in Oron as clear indicators of Governor Umo Eno’s vision for a thriving maritime sector. According to him, these efforts will significantly boost maritime transport and recreational activities in the region.
Stressing the strategic importance of the Ibom Deep Seaport, Ememobong described it as a foundational project for Akwa Ibom’s long-term economic growth. He acknowledged the crucial role of oil and gas professionals in maritime development and assured them of the government’s readiness to collaborate to drive sectoral expansion.
The Commissioner underscored the state’s focus on indigenous capacity-building, emphasizing the local content law, which mandates that a percentage of the workforce, services, and materials for major projects be sourced locally. He stated that Governor Umo Eno has prioritized capacity development to ensure that local businesses and individuals are well-equipped to benefit from the opportunities arising from industrial projects like the Ibom Deep Seaport.
Furthermore, Comrade Ememobong commended the efforts of the Ibom Deep Seaport technical committee, led by Mrs. Mfon Usoro, in advancing the project. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with key stakeholders to realize the seaport’s full potential.
Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the delegation and Secretary General of Port State Control for the West and Central African Region, Captain Sunday Umoren, expressed enthusiasm for the state’s maritime future. He pledged the support of Akwa Ibom’s maritime experts in building human capacity to maximize the benefits of the deep seaport project.
“We are here to contribute our expertise and collaborate in planning. The deep seaport is coming, but if we do not position ourselves strategically, we may not fully harness its potential,” Captain Umoren stated.
Other members of the team were the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Project and Director of Project, Ibom Deep Seaport, Engr. Akaninyene Ekong; Former District Surveyor NIMASA, Marine Surveyor Engr. Eyo James; and Project Lead, Shell UK, Adjunct Professor John Moores University, UK, Prof Maurice Asuquo.
Also on the team were the Chief Engineer, Jad Construction limited, Warri, Engr. Iniobong Ebong; Marine Pilot, Nigerian Ports Authority, Bonny/Port Harcourt Pilotage District, Rivers Port Complex, Nkopuyo Abraham.
