Sunday October 18, 2026
By thenewsdesk.ng
The Akwa Ibom State Government is targeting December 2026 to commission the Oron Maritime Infrastructure Project, a major coastal development expected to unlock trade, strengthen water transportation, attract private investment and create jobs as the state pursues economic diversification.
Governor Umo Eno announced the timeline during the Government House Monthly Prayer Service in Uyo, describing the project as a strategic investment in the state’s marine economy.
Eno said the development goes beyond a ferry terminal, with integrated facilities designed to position Oron as a commercial gateway for coastal transportation, fisheries, tourism and cargo movement.
“The Oron maritime infrastructure is aimed at repositioning Oron as a commercial zone to stimulate private-sector investment, create employment opportunities, and promote sustainable livelihoods through productive utilisation of the state’s marine resources,” the governor said.
The project, which aligns with the administration’s ARISE Agenda, is expected to improve market access for coastal communities, reduce post-harvest losses, strengthen maritime security and open new opportunities for local enterprises.
Planned facilities include passenger and cargo jetties, a ferry terminal, hotel, cold room, warehouse, floating bar, Joint Task Force jetty, workshop, car park and recreational centre.
To improve connectivity along the coastal corridor, the governor disclosed that two newly built ferries had been acquired, with four vessels expected to operate on the Oron-Calabar route.
“We have acquired two newly built ferries of 24 metres and 18 metres long. We expect four of them in all to operate along the Oron-Calabar route to provide easy movement of people and goods across the coastal corridor,” he said.
The ferries, he stated, would be named after former first ladies of Akwa Ibom State in recognition of their contributions to the state’s development.
The project forms part of broader infrastructure interventions in the Oron axis, including the completed Nsit Atai–Okobo–Oron Road and ongoing rehabilitation of the 13.5-kilometre Okopedi–Uya Oro Road.
Beyond the commissioning target, the project’s economic value will depend on efficient operations, reliable ferry services, sustained maintenance and the capacity to attract businesses that can turn new infrastructure into lasting employment and commercial activity.
The governor said the state remained committed to transformative development and urged residents to support the administration’s programmes.
Earlier, the General Overseer of Precious Faith International Church, Reverend Emmanuel Iniama, spoke on the theme, “For God is with us,” urging Christians to remain confident in the face of adversity.
The service was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs Helen Eno Obareki; Dean of Commissioners Mkpisong Frank Archibong; members of the State Executive Council, political stakeholders, industry leaders, government officials and Christian faithfuls.
With commissioning targeted for December, attention will turn to delivery, operational readiness and whether the Oron maritime hub can convert public infrastructure investment into measurable gains in trade, jobs and coastal livelihoods.
