Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has directed relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and contractors handling transportation projects across the state to accelerate implementation and ensure their completion and commissioning before the end of 2026.
Eno gave the directive during a comprehensive briefing on the progress of ongoing transport infrastructure and equipment projects, stressing the need to meet delivery timelines and translate government investments into tangible benefits for residents.
The governor said the projects were designed to improve transportation services, strengthen connectivity and provide citizens with efficient and cost-effective mobility, warning that delays could undermine the objectives for which they were initiated.
He consequently charged the responsible MDAs and contractors to intensify efforts, strengthen coordination and address implementation challenges to ensure that all projects were delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
Particular attention was given to the Oron Maritime Infrastructure and Ferry Project, which is reported to be 85 per cent complete.
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Eno highlighted the project’s economic, tourism and security significance, noting that the facilities would support commercial activities, enhance maritime operations and improve transportation along the state’s waterways.
He directed the relevant agencies and contractors to put the necessary measures in place to ensure timely completion, seamless commissioning and effective commencement of operations.
The Oron project comprises a terminal building, passenger jetty, cargo jetty, Joint Task Force (JTF) jetty, floating bar, warehouses, dry storage facilities, fish processing and drying sections, solar-powered cold rooms for fishmongers and a recreational area.
When completed and operational, the facilities are expected to facilitate passenger and cargo movement, reduce post-harvest losses through improved fish preservation, support fish processing and strengthen maritime security, while opening up opportunities for tourism and related economic activities.
The briefing also reviewed the status of the two ferries ordered by the state government, alongside other transportation initiatives, compressed natural gas (CNG) buses and associated terminal infrastructure.
The governor urged the relevant MDAs and contractors to sustain implementation efforts, closely monitor progress and promptly resolve bottlenecks that could jeopardise the year-end delivery target.
He reiterated the importance of accountability, effective coordination and timely execution, charging all parties involved to ensure that the projects deliver their intended benefits to the people of Akwa Ibom State.
Present at the briefing were the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr Aniefiok Johnson; Commissioner for Transport, Dr Anthony Luke; members of the State Executive Council and other government officials.
