President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State, backing key projects, including the Ibom International Airport and the long-awaited Ibom Deep Seaport.
The President made the remarks on Friday during his visit to Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, where he was received by Governor Umo Eno, political leaders, government officials and enthusiastic supporters at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The presidential visit featured the inauguration of projects executed by the Eno administration, a reception in Tinubu’s honour and renewed calls for greater federal support for the state’s economic development.
During the gathering, supporters repeatedly chanted, “Eight years! Eight years!” expressing their support for Tinubu’s continued stay in office.
One of the major highlights of the visit was Tinubu’s response to Governor Eno’s appeal for the approval of the Ibom Deep Seaport project, which has remained unrealised for decades.
After the governor presented the project as a major economic priority for the state, Tinubu responded positively, declaring, “Okay, it’s approved.”
Eno had earlier pledged that Akwa Ibom would deliver two million votes for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 if the Federal Government approved the deep seaport.
The governor described the proposed facility as a strategic investment capable of transforming Akwa Ibom’s economy, creating thousands of jobs, attracting foreign investment and positioning the state as a major maritime and transhipment hub.
Tinubu also expressed support for infrastructure development in the state, including the Ibom International Airport, as part of efforts to expand economic opportunities and improve connectivity.
The President also used the occasion to take a swipe at an unnamed political opponent seeking the presidency, describing him as a political wanderer and questioning his performance while serving as governor of his state.
In an apparent reference to the former governor’s inability to address erosion challenges in his state, Tinubu contrasted his record with his own efforts in Lagos, claiming to have tackled the threat posed by the Atlantic Ocean.
The remark drew attention during the political gathering, adding a partisan dimension to an event largely focused on infrastructure development and the relationship between the Federal Government and Akwa Ibom State.
Tinubu’s visit comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Governor Eno’s administration openly expressing support for the President and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The proposed Ibom Deep Seaport, originally conceived during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah as the Ibaka Deep Seaport and Industrial City, remains one of Akwa Ibom’s most anticipated infrastructure projects.
Its eventual development is expected to strengthen maritime activities, stimulate industrialisation, create employment and boost economic activities across the South-South region.
