President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially approved the long-awaited Ibom Deep Seaport project alongside the upgrade of the Victor Attah International Airport to full international status in Akwa Ibom State. ​President Tinubu announced the major approvals on Friday afternoon, November 6, 2026, during a grand reception and rally organized in his honour at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
​The landmark presidential green light followed a direct appeal by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, during the ceremony. Addressing the President, Governor Eno urged the Federal Government to fast-track key infrastructure projects in the state, pledging strong political alignment and backing from the state. ​
Responding to Governor Eno’s address before thousands of attendees at the packed stadium, President Tinubu affirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure development. ​”Development must be inclusive and reasonable; it must bring progress and create economic value,” President Tinubu stated.
“I heard from my friend, my governor, my pastor, on behalf of the people and leadership of Akwa Ibom, the request for the Ibom Deep Seaport. It is approved.” ​The Ibom Deep Seaport project, situated in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area, is designed to serve as a major transshipment hub for West and Central Africa.
With its natural deep draft capable of accommodating modern large vessels, the seaport is expected to significantly relieve pressure on existing maritime corridors in Lagos, stimulate industrial activity, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the Niger Delta region. ​
In addition to the seaport clearance, President Tinubu confirmed approval for upgrading the Victor Attah International Airport infrastructure to enhance international passenger traffic and regional cargo aviation operations. ​The official visit was attended by top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, federal lawmakers, state cabinet members, and traditional rulers, marking a major milestone in federal-state infrastructural partnership.
