Tinubu approves proposed Ibom Deep-Sea Port in Akwa Ibom

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the proposed Ibom Deep-Sea Port 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 while addressing residents at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Eno had appealed to the President to support the project, promising to mobilise two million votes for his re-election in 2027 if the port was delivered.

The proposed port will be located around Mbo and Ibeno Local Government Areas as part of the Ibom Industrial City project.

The project, initially conceived during the administration of former Governor Victor Attah, is expected to become a major maritime hub for West and Central Africa.

It is projected to attract billions of dollars in investment, create employment, boost trade and manufacturing, and reduce pressure on existing Nigerian seaports.

The project has secured several regulatory and preparatory approvals, including the Federal Executive Council's approval of its Outline Business Case in May 2025. However, funding and other implementation requirements have remained major challenges.

Tinubu also approved the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport to full international airport status during the event.