Reps Rally Behind Akwa Ibom Deep Seaport Project, Say It Will Boost Nigeria’s Economy and Curb Smuggling
By Comfort Chukwukelue,
A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Jimbo Clement, has expressed strong support for the proposed Deep Seaport project in Akwa Ibom State, describing it as a transformative venture capable of revolutionizing Nigeria’s economy, creating jobs, and curbing smuggling and import dependency.
Speaking on the project, Hon. Clement emphasized that Akwa Ibom is naturally endowed with the ideal features for a deep seaport, including a suitable coastline and access to maritime routes, making it a strategic location for port development.
“Akwa Ibom State is blessed with all human and natural resources you can think of. The proposed site has all it requires to host a deep seaport. As a son of the soil, I’m particularly proud that all ten of us representing the state in the National Assembly have thrown our weight behind Governor Pastor Umo Eno to ensure the realization of this project in record time,” Hon. Clement said.
Highlighting the broader national impact, the lawmaker explained that the Deep Seaport would not only decongest existing ports in Lagos but also enhance Nigeria’s export potential.
He recounted his visit to the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos, where he observed the inefficiencies in current port operations.
“I was told that many vessels leave Nigeria empty and fill their tanks with water for balance because there are no goods to export. This shows how much we need to ramp up local production,” he said.
Hon. Clement further linked the initiative to his pending Bill for the Establishment of a National Commission on Technology Transfer, which aims to encourage domestic manufacturing using local raw materials.
According to him, establishing the Akwa Ibom Deep Seaport would promote industrial growth, reduce unemployment, and help Nigeria retain capital and technology.
“The benefits are enormous. It will help check smuggling, reduce import dependency, retain labor, and boost our GDP. When fewer goods are imported, smuggling and illegal entry of drugs and arms are also reduced,” he added.
On concerns about financing the project amid Nigeria’s budget deficit, the lawmaker described the seaport as a worthy investment that justifies borrowing.
“This is one project I’ll gladly stamp my ten fingers and ten toes for Nigeria to borrow to implement. It’s a revenue-generating venture—before, during, and after construction. Nigeria loses about $5.6 billion yearly for not decongesting our ports,” Hon. Clement explained.
He noted that the project has advanced beyond conception, with 14,400 hectares of land already acquired and feasibility, viability, and environmental impact studies completed.
“The front-end engineering design has been done. The state government has provided land, security, and shown readiness to contribute equity. What we need now is for the Federal Government to open the doors for partnership and investment,” he said.
Hon. Clement added that discussions around the Ibom Deep Seaport date back to the administration of former Governor Udom Emmanuel but have now gained renewed momentum under Governor Umo Eno, who has made the project a top priority.
“It’s a journey of a thousand miles that has already begun. All hands are on deck to ensure it becomes a reality,” he concluded.
