Governor Umo Eno has reaffirmed the commitment of the Akwa Ibom State Government to expanding the state’s blue economy through strategic investments in marine transportation and maritime infrastructure.
The governor said the initiative is aimed at diversifying the state’s economy beyond crude oil while stimulating economic activities in coastal communities.
As part of the effort to revive water transportation, a 64-capacity passenger and cargo ferry being constructed by the Nigerian Navy at the Naval Shipyard in Port Harcourt is said to be nearing completion.
State officials who recently inspected the project disclosed that the vessel has reached approximately 80 per cent completion and is expected to undergo a test run in June.
The inspection delegation, led by State Delivery Adviser on the project, Hon. Orman Esin, alongside the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Gen. Koko Essien (Rtd), and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso.
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Other members of the team included the Special Assistant on Multimedia and Web Management, Engr. Solomon Eyo, as well as the Director of Marine Services in the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Ekerete Edo.
Speaking during the inspection, Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard, Rear Admiral Ikenna Ubani, assured the delegation that adequate funding had been provided to fast-track the completion of the vessel.
According to him, major installations have already been completed, with only finishing works remaining before final operational checks.
Ubani further disclosed that the ferry is expected to be delivered to Akwa Ibom State before the end of June.
Technical reports presented during the visit indicated progress in critical areas of the project, including installation of zinc anodes, reinforcement of the vehicle deck, structural welding corrections, and work on the loading ramp and bridge control systems.
Officials also confirmed ongoing installations involving electrical wiring, navigation equipment, plumbing systems, ventilation facilities, and solar-powered components.
The state government is also integrating the ferry operations with the Oron jetty infrastructure currently under development to ensure seamless deployment once the vessel arrives.
In addition to infrastructure development, the project includes a manpower training programme for young indigenes of the state.
One of the beneficiaries, Aniebiet Brendan from Ekpene Ukpa in Etinan Local Government Area, said he was selected through the state’s Arise Portal after a transparent application process.
Brendan, who is currently undergoing marine engineering training in Port Harcourt alongside 19 other trainees sponsored by the government, commended Governor Eno for creating the opportunity.
The ferry, which will operate from the Oron Marine Terminal, is expected to improve coastal transportation, boost tourism, and enhance commercial activities across Akwa Ibom State.
The vessel is designed to carry 64 passengers and up to seven vehicles.
Meanwhile, another ferry being constructed in Lagos by Hydro Marine Boat Services Limited for the Akwa Ibom State Government is also nearing completion and will equally be deployed to the Oron Marine Terminal.
