The Akwa Ibom State Government says it has invested over 2.32 billion naira, in the aviation sector between 2023 and September 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen air connectivity, promote tourism and expand the state’s economic base under Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Aviation and Airport Development, Engineer Uwem Ekanem, disclosed this during the 11th day of the ongoing ministerial media briefing on the achievements of the administration. He also announced that Air Peace would commence flight operations at Victor Attah International Airport on October 23, 2026.
Presenting the aviation sector’s progress, Engr. Ekanem explained that the administration’s aviation vision extended beyond the construction of an international terminal to creating an integrated aviation ecosystem capable of supporting passenger services, aircraft maintenance, cargo operations and related businesses. Ekanem identified the international terminal access road and drainage, the aircraft apron, airfield lighting and the 14.1-kilometre operational security fence as key supporting infrastructure at Victor Attah International Airport.
He said the facilities were designed to improve accessibility, support safe aircraft movements, strengthen airport security and facilitate efficient operations.
On his part, the Commissioner overseeing the Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Emem Bob, highlighted projects including the Ibom International Convention Centre, the 18-storey Ibom International Hotel, Arise Shopping City, road and drainage infrastructure around the Ibom Tropicana complex, and the proposed Court of Appeal facility.
He said the convention centre, covering 63,549 square metres, was designed to accommodate conferences, exhibitions and major business events, with parking for 615 vehicles. The adjoining hotel, comprising 220 rooms, is expected to provide accommodation for conference delegates, investors and other visitors, while supporting hospitality-related employment and local businesses.
Bob also provided an update on the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport and Industrial City, stating that the port master plan, site-specific studies and feasibility studies had been completed. He said the project’s full business case had received approval from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission and the Federal Executive Council, while efforts to identify preferred bidders were ongoing.
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