… Says, Your leaders made requests for the upgrade’
President Bola Tinubu on Friday assured the people of Akwa Ibom State that his administration will prioritise the upgrade of the Victor Attah Airport, Uyo, to an international standard, as well as the development of the Ibom deep-sea port
The President, who is in the state as part of his 2027 presidential campaign, also pledged to expand infrastructural development in the region to accelerate economic transformation in the state
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, President Tinubu urged young Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the democratic process, describing the voter card as a vital instrument for exercising their constitutional rights.
“The weapon you have is the PVC. If you have not collected it, please go ahead and collect your Permanent Voter Cards,” the President urged.
Tinubu acknowledged the importance of such infrastructure, stressing that it will increase job creation, amongst others
The President stated that the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport would stimulate commercial activities, attract investment and unlock new economic opportunities for the people.
“It is approved, Ibom Deep Seaport will bring associated economic value and economic development here,” the President declared.
President Tinubu confirmed that he had already granted approval for the upgrade of the airport, reiterating the importance of infrastructure investment in promoting inclusive growth.
“Your leader made a request for international airport status. I approved it,” he stated.
The President described his visit to the state as a “homecoming,” saying that it reflects his longstanding relationship with the people of Akwa Ibom
He also recalled how he spent his early professional career with Mobil and participated in auditing the company’s operations in Eket, a major oil hub in the state
“Coming to Akwa Ibom is like homecoming for me,” the President said, recalling the challenges of travelling by boat during his assignments and his familiarity with the state’s developmental needs.
He commended Governor Umo Eno for sustaining infrastructure development in the state, describing continuity in governance, effective leadership and commitment to public service as essential to lasting economic progress.
President Tinubu also outlined his administration’s priorities for young Nigerians, pledging greater opportunities in education, skills acquisition, employment and agricultural development.
“I promise you a better future. I promise you development. I promise you education. I promise you skill development. I promise you jobs,” he declared.
On agricultural development, the President identified oil palm cultivation as an important economic opportunity for Akwa Ibom, highlighting the need to harness the state’s natural resources for industrial growth and sustainable employment.
“There is no reason why Akwa Ibom cannot use the economic palm trees and the palm plantations here,” he said.
He reaffirmed his longstanding commitment to democratic governance, recalling his involvement in the struggle for democracy, freedom and national development.
President Tinubu’s visit to Akwa Ibom also featured the inauguration of major infrastructure projects executed by Governor Umo Eno’s administration, including the new International Terminal Building, International Airport Hospital and Ibom Aviation Village at the Victor Attah International Airport.
Other projects listed for inauguration included the Airport–Okopedi Road, Ring Road 3, the AKWA-GIS Office Complex, the Command and Control Centre and the ARISE Palm Resort.
The President’s engagements formed part of his two-state visit to Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, combining infrastructure commissioning with political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
