Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises and driving economic growth across Akwa Ibom with the official flag off of the Oron Marine Jetty reconstruction.
The announcement was made on Thursday through a statement via the governor’s social media platforms.
The project, which is set for completion by September, is expected to revitalise Oron as a major hub for marine trade, transport, and tourism while creating jobs for thousands of residents.
“This project is already providing daily jobs for over 1,000 locals and will transform Oron into a commercial and leisure destination,” the statement reads.
He further emphasised that the upgraded jetty would feature steel shore protections, four jetties, a ferry terminal, a cold room and warehouse, a 5,500-square-meter car park, an internal road network, and a recreational center designed to attract tourism.
“All these will be delivered with top-tier security,” he assured.
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Acknowledging the state’s financial limitations regarding railway development, Governor Eno stressed his administration’s alternative focus on enhancing water transport.
“We may not yet have the financial capacity for railways, but we will develop our waterways, deploy ferries, and restore Oron’s past glory as a thriving economic center,” he stated.
The governor commended the efforts of the Nigerian Navy and Rear Admiral Etop Ebe for their contributions to the project, particularly in delivering the first passenger cruise ferry and training engineers to ensure the jetty’s long-term maintenance.
He also called on the youth to actively support the contractors in achieving timely completion of the project.
“I urge our youths to support the contractors in ensuring timely completion. With your continued support, we will take development to every part of our state and curb rural-urban migration,” he said.
Reaffirming his vision for Akwa Ibom’s progress, Governor Eno concluded with a declaration: “Akwa Ibom is rising!”
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