Nigeria's NDC Questions Repeated Promises on Ibom Deep Sea Port

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has expressed concerns over the repeated promises by President Bola Tinubu to construct the Ibom Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom State. The party noted that the project had received Federal Government approval in 2020 under former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. According to the NDC, the Federal Executive Council approved the implementation of the first phase of the proposed $4.6 billion port project on December 16, 2020.

The NDC identified Bolloré/PowerChina as the preferred bidder for the project, raising questions about why construction had yet to commence. The party recalled that President Tinubu had also promised to build the port during his presidential campaign rally in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on January 30, 2023. The NDC expressed concern that despite the earlier approval and campaign promises, the project had remained uncompleted.

President Tinubu made a recent commitment to construct the port on November 6, 2026, renewing questions about the government's plan and timeline for delivering the project. The NDC urged the Federal Government to provide clear details on the project's implementation, funding arrangements, and commencement date. The party emphasized that the people of Akwa Ibom State deserved concrete action on the proposed port.

The Ibom Deep Sea Port project has the potential to improve maritime trade, create jobs, and boost economic activities in Akwa Ibom State. The NDC called on Nigerians to demand accountability from political leaders and assess governments based on their performance rather than campaign promises. The party stressed the need for a leadership approach focused on delivering projects and improving citizens' living conditions.

The NDC's concerns over the Ibom Deep Sea Port project highlight the challenges of implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in Nigeria. The project's delay has raised questions about the government's ability to follow through on its promises. The NDC's statement underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in government decision-making.

The Federal Government's approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port project in 2020 was seen as a significant step towards developing Nigeria's maritime infrastructure. However, the project's delay has raised concerns about the government's commitment to implementing the project. The NDC's call for clear details on the project's implementation and funding arrangements reflects the need for greater transparency.

The Ibom Deep Sea Port project is one of several infrastructure projects aimed at boosting Nigeria's economy. The project's successful implementation could have a significant impact on the country's maritime trade and economic development. The NDC's concerns over the project's delay highlight the need for the government to prioritize project implementation and delivery.

Key points

• The Nigeria Democratic Congress questions the government's plan and timeline for the Ibom Deep Sea Port project, which has been delayed despite receiving approval in 2020.