07/05/2026
AKWA IBOM GOVT INSPECTS 64 - SEATS PASSENGER AND CARGO VESSEL, ASSURED OF READINESS, JUNE
Governor Umo Eno’s promise to develop and expand marine transportation for the benefit of the people of Akwa Ibom State, has recorded a remarkable progress with the near completion of the 64-seat passenger and cargo ferry being constructed by the Nigerian Navy at the Naval Shipyard in Port Harcourt.
The State Delivery Adviser on the project, Hon Orman Esin accompanied by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, General Koko Essien (Rtd), the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, in an unscheduled visit to the shipyard in Port Harcourt, said he was happy with the assurances from the Nigerian Navy that the project awarded by Governor Eno, which was at 80 percent completion will be ready in June.
Other members of the delegation included the Special Assistant to the Governor on Multi Media and Web Management, Engr. Solomon Eyo, and the Director of Marine Services in the State Ministry of Transport, Mr Ekerete Edo.
The visit was part of a coordinated technical and administrative oversight aimed at ensuring timely delivery and operational readiness of the vessel in line with Governor Eno’s promise to reinstate marine transportation and boost the blue economy of the State.
Conducting the team round during the inspection, the Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard, Rear Admiral Ikenna Ubani confirmed that necessary funding support has been secured to fast-track completion, expressing confidence that the ferry will be ready for test run in June.
He said all the major installations on the vessel have been fixed and only minor finishing touches are currently being carried out.
He noted that before the end of June, the vessel will undergo final checks before sailing down to Akwa Ibom state.
Technical briefings at the shipyard indicated significant progress on key components of the ferry.
These include the inst
