Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced plans to seek approvals from the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a proposed seaport and inland waterways project aimed at strengthening maritime infrastructure and driving economic development in the State.
Otti disclosed this on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, through a statement posted on his official X account after a meeting with a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, led by Mr. Nicolas Liu. The discussions centered on the proposed Azumini–Obeaku Sea Port and Inland Waterways Corridor project in Abia State.
According to the Governor, the State Government has already begun preliminary steps toward the initiative by approving an immediate feasibility study to assess the project’s viability. He noted that while the engineering company initially proposed a six to seven-month timeline for the study, he directed that the process be completed much sooner to accelerate implementation.
Otti explained that beyond the feasibility study, his administration would immediately begin engaging relevant Federal Institutions to secure the required approvals for the project. These include the Presidency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Blue Economy.
The Governor also stressed the importance of technical assessments at the proposed site, particularly considering its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the dredging requirements necessary for the development of a functional seaport.
Highlighting the economic significance of the project, Otti described the proposed seaport as a transformative initiative capable of boosting trade, logistics, and industrialization in Abia State and the wider South-Eastern region.
He expressed confidence that with adequate funding, strategic partnerships, and strong political will, the Azumini Sea Port project could become a reality.
The Governor further commended the Chinese engineering firm for its interest in the project and expressed optimism that the feasibility study would produce positive outcomes.
If approved by the Tinubu administration and other Federal Agencies, the Azumini–Obeaku Sea Port and Inland Waterways Corridor project is expected to position Abia State as a major maritime and commercial hub in South-Eastern Nigeria.