By Our Correspondent

National News – The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has appealed to residents to remain patient as his administration continues work on the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport and ongoing reforms in the state’s power sector.

The governor noted that both initiatives involve complex planning and investment processes that require time before visible results can be achieved.

Speaking to Government House correspondents after returning from an official visit to the United Kingdom with Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Eno explained that the trip provided an opportunity to engage potential investors, particularly in the power sector.

According to him, discussions with stakeholders and energy investors were encouraging and could lead to positive outcomes for the state’s energy development plans.

The governor emphasised that transforming the electricity sector remains one of the key priorities of his administration.

He explained that several reforms and strategic engagements are already underway, aimed at improving power generation, distribution, and investment opportunities within the state.

However, he cautioned that major infrastructure reforms do not happen instantly.

Eno stressed that while residents are eager to see rapid progress, projects such as the Ibom Deep Seaport and electricity reforms require careful planning, feasibility studies, and strong investor partnerships.

He revealed that the state government had already completed payment for the feasibility studies required for the seaport project, marking a critical milestone toward its eventual development.

The governor also said the government is currently engaging multiple investors and stakeholders interested in the seaport project.

According to him, such engagements are necessary to ensure the project attracts the right level of funding, expertise, and global partnerships needed to succeed.

While acknowledging the enthusiasm among citizens for faster development, Eno reassured residents that steady progress is being made.

He noted that the administration is moving step by step to ensure that both the seaport project and power sector reforms are implemented sustainably and effectively.

The Ibom Deep Seaport project is widely expected to boost trade, logistics, and industrial growth in Akwa Ibom and across southern Nigeria once completed.

The governor expressed optimism that continued negotiations with investors and careful planning would eventually deliver the long-awaited economic benefits to the state.