Oron Marine Terminal gets boost as Akwa Ibom ferry project nears delivery

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Akwa Ibom State’s bid to revive marine transportation and expand its blue economy has moved closer to reality, with the state’s 64-seat passenger and cargo ferry now 80 per cent completed and on course for delivery in June 2026.

The vessel, currently under construction at the Nigerian Navy Shipyard in Port Harcourt, is designed to carry 64 passengers and seven vehicles, marking a major investment in coastal mobility, trade, and tourism in the state.

A delegation from the Akwa Ibom State Government, led by the State Delivery Adviser on the project, Hon. Orman Esin, conducted an inspection visit to the shipyard on Wednesday 6, May 2026 to assess progress and operational readiness ahead of deployment.

The team included the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, retired Gen. Koko Essien; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso; Special Assistant on Multimedia and Web Management, Engr. Solomon Eyo; and Director of Marine Services, Mr. Ekerete Edo.

Speaking after the inspection, Esin expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, saying assurances from the Nigerian Navy indicate the ferry will be ready for a test run in June.

According to him, the project aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s promise to restore marine transportation and unlock economic opportunities within the state’s waterways corridor.

Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard, Rear Admiral Ikenna Ubani, confirmed that funding support had been secured to ensure speedy completion of the vessel.

Ubani disclosed that major installations had been completed, while only finishing works remained before final testing and delivery.

He said the ferry would undergo final checks before sailing to Akwa Ibom later in June.

Technical briefings during the inspection showed substantial progress on key installations, including zinc anodes, reinforced car deck structures, and correction of structural weldings.

Other ongoing works include construction of the loading ramp, bridge control console, electrical wiring, navigation and communication systems, solar power facilities, plumbing, and ventilation installations.

The government delegation also reviewed plans to integrate the ferry with the Oron Marine Terminal infrastructure currently under development to ensure smooth deployment upon delivery.

The project also includes a manpower development component.

One of 20 beneficiaries undergoing marine training sponsored by the state government, Aniebiet Brendan, said he emerged through a transparent recruitment process conducted via the state’s ARISE portal.

He thanked Governor Eno for the opportunity to pursue a career as a marine engineer.

A second ferry being built by Hydromarine Boat Services Limited in Lagos is also expected to be completed soon, further strengthening the state’s coastal transport network.