Oron Maritime Infrastructure Project: A’Ibom Gov Reaffirms Commitment To Restoring Commercial Marine Activities

By Bassey Nkponam 
ORON
Akwa Ibom governor has said that his administration was committed to restoring commercial activities in Oron to redeem its ancient natural identity as one of the major marine economic hubs of the State as he inspected Oron maritime infrastructure project.
Pastor Umo Eno, who stated this, Tuesday, while fielding questions from Government House correspondents, shortly after inspecting the ongoing construction of Oron marine terminal, shore protection, jetty, warehouse and recreational facility project site in Oron, assured of transformational impact on socio-economic lives of the people.
 Eno said his administration was committed to ensuring the development of the marine terminal with modern facilities to enhance the economic potential of the area, and restore full commercial activities that would boost the economy of the State. 
“Where we are now is the terminal building where passengers will come, buy their tickets and board the boat to Calabar. 
“Beyond that marine transportation, I want commercial activities to be back here so that our fishermen can practice their trade. We have cold room facility, dry storage facility and fish drying facility so that that business can thrive. We have to make this place very conducive and lucrative,”Eno stated. 
Assessing the progress of the project, Governor Eno commended the project contractor, MK Construction Ltd, for the speedy realisation of the vision, stating that his decision to pay a visit to the site was to inspect the progress of the project, listen to the contractor, and match the architectural design with the physical reality on ground to determine next steps.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and confidence in the timely completion of the project as planned, thanking the people of Oron for their cooperation and support for the contractor.
The governor described the project as a treasurable gift to the people, and urged them to protect and take ownership of the project. 
Eno also directed the rehabilitation of the old Oron Museum to complement the emerging tourism assets in the area, reinforcing the State’s vision of integrating culture, heritage and infrastructure to drive sustainable economic growth and improve livelihoods.
The Oron maritime infrastructure project, comprises the shoreline protection works, modern jetties, a terminal building, floating bars, new ferries, and other supporting facilities designed to boost maritime transportation, enhance safety, promote tourism, and stimulate economic activities across the coastal corridor.