Akwa Ibom woos U.S. government on deep seaport project

Akwa Ibom State governor, Udom Emmanuel, has urged the United States of America (USA) and its investors to partner with the state in the development of the Ibom Deep Seaport.

He made the call when the Chief of Political and Economic Affairs of the U.S. Consulate in Nigeria, Brandon Hudspeth visited him yesterday at Government House, Uyo.

Emmanuel, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Moses Ekpo, said the Seaport was conceived and programmed to be the flagship of the shipping industry, adding that it stemmed from its strategic location, which is endowed with natural draught and direct access to all parts of the world including the U.S.

He pointed out that the U.S. had enjoyed a robust bilateral relationship with Nigeria since the nation’s independence, adding that huge investment opportunities abound in the state for American investors to explore.

Speaking, Hudspeth said he visited the state as part of his tour of the Niger Delta region, saying it was a show of his country’s interest in the oil-rich region.

He stressed that the visit was to strengthen the relationship between the states of the region and America, noting that to achieve the aim, he hoped to interact, discuss and have a better understanding that would create further mutual benefits for both countries.