The Akwa Ibom State Government is advancing a strategic infrastructure development programme aimed at expanding the state’s economic frontiers, attracting investments and strengthening its competitiveness in global aviation, hospitality and tourism.
The Supervisory Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Mr. Emem Almond Bob, disclosed this on Monday, October 19, 2026, during the Ministerial Media Briefing at Akpan Isemin Hall, Government House, Uyo.
Bob, who gave an overview of flagship projects being implemented under Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, said the projects are designed to position Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for business, tourism and investment in the Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, the administration’s infrastructure drive goes beyond physical assets to building an interconnected network of facilities that will stimulate economic activities, improve access to services, attract private sector investments and create sustainable employment.
He identified the Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport as a key coordinating institution, providing strategic direction and technical oversight for designated projects while collaborating with relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation and adherence to standards.
On aviation, Bob described the transformation of the Victor Attah International Airport into a stronger gateway for international travel and commerce as a major component of the programme.
He listed ongoing projects to include an airport apron nearing completion, an international terminal access road and drainage system, as well as a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul, MRO, facility also nearing completion.
He explained that the investments would strengthen the airport’s operational capacity, improve connectivity and enhance its potential to support trade, tourism and commercial activities.
On tourism and hospitality, the Commissioner said government is establishing a complementary hospitality and business-conference hub to harness opportunities arising from increased passenger traffic and visitor arrivals.
He disclosed that the 5,000-capacity Ibom International Convention Centre and the 220-room Ibom International Hotel have each attained 90 per cent completion and will soon be inaugurated.
According to him, the facilities will enhance the state’s capacity to host major conferences, business meetings, conventions and tourism-related events, while creating jobs and spurring growth in the hospitality sector.
On the Court of Appeal Complex in Uyo, Bob said work is progressing smoothly with September 2027 as target completion date.
“The proposed facility will accommodate three courtrooms, six judges’ chambers and 70 offices, bringing appellate judicial services closer to residents and reducing the cost and inconvenience associated with travelling outside the state for court proceedings,” he stated.
Speaking on the mandate of the Ministry, Bob explained that it also provides technical supervision for selected projects implemented by other Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, under the ARISE Agenda.
He noted that the arrangement enables the Ministry to deploy its professional expertise in project coordination, construction supervision, quality assurance and compliance with approved specifications to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, uphold construction standards and ensure public investments deliver value for money.
Bob reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting quality infrastructure delivery, strengthening accountability and advancing sustainable development in line with the ARISE Agenda, expressing confidence that the strategic investments would contribute to economic diversification, create employment and position Akwa Ibom as a leading destination for business, tourism and investment in the Gulf of Guinea.
