The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has questioned the latest promise by President Bola Tinubu to construct the Ibom Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom State, saying the project had received Federal Government approval under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2020.
In a statement in Abuja, the party says the Federal Executive Council, FEC, on December 16, 2020, approved the implementation of the first phase of the proposed 4.6-billion-dollar port project.
The NDC notes that the approval had identified Bolloré/PowerChina as the preferred bidder, raising questions about why the project had yet to commence construction.
The party recalls that President Tinubu also promised to build the port during his presidential campaign rally at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on January 30, 2023.
According to the NDC, Tinubu had assures residents that his administration would support mechanised farming, boost food exports and construct the seaport.
It, however, expresses concern that the project had remained uncompleted despite the earlier approval and campaign promises.
The party says the latest commitment, made by the President on Friday, November 6, 2026, had renewed questions about the government’s plan and timeline for delivering the project.
The NDC urges the Federal Government to move beyond campaign promises and provide clear details on the project’s implementation, funding arrangements and commencement date.
It says the people of Akwa Ibom State deserved concrete action on the proposed port, considering its potential to improve maritime trade, create jobs and boost economic activities in the state.
The party also calls on Nigerians to demand accountability from political leaders and assess governments based on their performance rather than campaign promises.
The NDC maintains that Nigeria needed a leadership approach focused on delivering projects and improving the living conditions of citizens.
