By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Akwa Ibom State Government has signed a memoradum of Understanding (MoU), with INTERAF Group for the construction of the multi billion dollar Ibom Deep Sea Port.
It would be recalled that the project which is estimated to cost $4.6 billion, was relocated from Okposo community to Ibeno, last year
Speaking during the signing on Wednesday, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering the project, which he said is aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
Eno, who emphasised the project’s significance, urged the consortium to work closely with the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), the government’s representative, to ensure its timely execution. He noted that the project is a necessity for the people of the State, pointing out that his administration is fully committed to putting the necessary requirements in place to get it on course.
He commended INTERAF Group for its interest in the project and a former Petroleum Minister, Atuekong Don Etiebet for being part of the team and working towards the actualisation of the facility in the State.
Etiebet commended the governor for his visionary and impactful leadership, which, he said, has remarkably transformed the State for the better, noting that the MoU marks a significant milestone in the project’s development, which was first conceived in 2007.
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of INTERAF Group Consortium, Engr. Ezinwa Chinedu Ibekwe, expressed appreciation to the Government for the confidence reposed in the company and assured the Government of the consortium’s readiness to deliver on its mandate, promising a collaborative approach to ensure the project’s success.
