By Solomon OKPO
Governor Umo Eno has initiated a cruise ferry project aimed at revitalising water transportation and unlocking economic opportunities along the Calabar–Akwa Ibom corridor.
The project, which targets the largely untapped waterways between Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, is designed to introduce modern, well-equipped passenger ferries to ease movement and stimulate regional development.
Available data indicate that over 70 percent of water transport potential between the two states remains underutilised, a gap the new initiative seeks to bridge through structured investment in marine transport infrastructure.
The ferry service will connect key coastal communities, particularly Oron in Akwa Ibom State to Calabar in Cross River State, reviving a historically significant trade and travel route that has seen limited use in recent years.
Officials say the introduction of the cruise ferries will provide a viable alternative to road transportation, often plagued by congestion and long travel hours. The water-based system is expected to offer faster, more convenient, and less stressful travel for commuters and traders.
Work is already progressing on multiple vessels, with emphasis on safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. In addition to the boats, complementary infrastructure such as jetties, terminals, and docking facilities is being developed to ensure seamless operations.
The project is being executed in collaboration with key maritime stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy Naval Shipyard, alongside local marine engineering firms and private logistics companies, to guarantee adherence to global standards.
Beyond transportation, the ferry system is projected to significantly boost tourism by offering a unique travel experience across the region’s waterways. This is expected to create new income streams for local residents through small-scale businesses such as food vending, tour guiding, and craft sales.
The initiative is also set to generate employment opportunities across various sectors, including vessel operations, maintenance, and terminal management, thereby strengthening the local economy.
Economic analysts note that improved water transport will enhance trade by facilitating the movement of goods between the two states, reducing logistics costs and encouraging business expansion. Additionally, the shift to waterways is expected to ease pressure on road infrastructure and reduce congestion.
The project aligns with broader efforts to develop Nigeria’s blue economy by harnessing underutilised water resources for sustainable economic activities.
Stakeholders view the cruise ferry initiative as a strategic intervention that goes beyond transportation, positioning the region for improved connectivity, increased commerce, and enhanced quality of life.
As implementation progresses, the project underscores Governor Eno’s commitment to practical, people-oriented development, with a focus on maximising existing natural assets for long-term growth.
