Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has directed ministries, departments and agencies, alongside contractors handling transportation projects across the state, to accelerate construction and ensure completion before the end of 2026.
The governor gives the directive on Thursday, October 8, during a review meeting with relevant government agencies and contractors to assess progress on ongoing transport infrastructure and equipment projects.
Eno says the projects are designed to improve transportation services, strengthen connectivity and provide residents with more efficient and affordable mobility.
He warns that delays are unacceptable and urges all parties involved to intensify efforts to meet the year-end delivery target.
One of the major projects receiving attention is the Oron Maritime Infrastructure and Ferry Project, which is reported to be 85 per cent complete.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the governor highlights the project’s potential economic, tourism and security benefits, particularly its capacity to improve passenger and cargo movement across Akwa Ibom’s waterways.
The governor directs the relevant agencies and contractors to address outstanding work, prepare the facilities for commissioning and ensure the project becomes operational without unnecessary delays.
The Oron project comprises a terminal building, passenger jetty, cargo jetty and a jetty for the Joint Task Force, alongside a floating bar and warehouse facilities.
It also includes dry storage areas, fish processing and drying sections, solar-powered cold rooms for fishmongers and a recreational area.
These facilities are expected to support maritime transportation, strengthen fish preservation and processing, create opportunities for commercial activity and contribute to tourism development.
For fishing communities and traders, access to improved storage and processing facilities could help preserve fish, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the movement of products to markets.
The maritime infrastructure is also expected to support security operations along the state’s waterways through facilities designed for relevant security personnel.
Beyond the Oron project, the governor reviews progress on other transportation initiatives, including two ferries ordered by the state government, compressed natural gas buses and associated terminal infrastructure.
Eno charges the responsible ministries, departments and agencies, as well as contractors, to maintain momentum and ensure the projects deliver their intended benefits to residents.
He stresses the need for effective coordination, close monitoring and prompt resolution of implementation challenges to avoid further delays.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the year-end target places additional emphasis on timely project execution and the need for government agencies and contractors to demonstrate measurable progress in the coming weeks.
The completion of these projects is expected to expand transportation options, improve connectivity and support economic activities across the state, particularly in communities that depend on waterways for movement and trade.
Present at the briefing are Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, Aniefiok Johnson; and Commissioner for Transport, Dr Anthony Luke.
Members of the State Executive Council and other government officials also attend the meeting.
As the December deadline approaches, Governor Eno maintains that all relevant parties must work together to complete the projects on schedule.
The focus now shifts to the pace of construction, the resolution of outstanding challenges and the readiness of the facilities for commissioning and operation before the end of 2026
