Akwa Ibom State don acquire two newly-built ferries to boost water transportation between Oron, wey be maritime hub, and Calabar for Cross River State. Di state government see di move as part of effort to turn Oron maritime and coastal area into busy centre for water transport, trade, commerce and tourism.
Governor Umo Eno make di matter known for Uyo, di state capital. E tok say di maritime infrastructure wey di state dey build no be only ferry terminal building; e also get high quality jetties and plan for world-class services. Di governor explain say di two ferries wey dem acquire long 24 metres and 18 metres. E say government expect four ferries in total to operate along Oron-Calabar route so people and goods go fit move easy across di coastal corridor.
According to am, di Oron maritime project aim to reposition Oron as commercial zone, attract private-sector investment, create jobs and promote sustainable livelihoods through productive use of di state marine resources. Di project dey coordinated to support passenger and cargo transport, fisheries and fish-processing, reduce post-harvest losses, promote hospitality and coastal tourism, strengthen maritime security and boost private investment.
E add say di project get potential to make Oron major gateway for coastal commerce, expand economic opportunities for local communities and push di state economic diversification objectives under di ARISE Agenda. Facilities expected from di project include ferry terminal building, passenger jetty, cargo jetty, hotel, cold room, warehouse, floating bar, Joint Task Force jetty, workshop, car park and recreational unit, among others. Di governor tok say dem go name di ferries after former First Ladies of di state to remember and appreciate their contributions to di development and growth of di state.
Governor Eno also talk about other government development efforts within Oron axis. Dem include di completed Nsit Atai – Okobo – Oron Road project and di ongoing rehabilitation of 13.5km Okopedi – Uya Oro Road. E tok say im administration, through di ARISE Agenda, don plan more impactful transformation for di state, and e urge residents to remain calm, prayerful and supportive.
