The Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified efforts to unlock the economic potential of airport corridors through enhanced security collaboration and strategic infrastructure development.
Speaking at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, Governor Umo Eno stressed that improved coordination with the Nigeria Police and other security agencies remains critical to identifying operational targets and safeguarding investments tied to airport expansion projects.
According to Governor Eno, the growing movement of goods around the airport axis necessitates the establishment of modern warehouse and bonded terminals and efficient logistics systems to support cargo handling and distribution.
“The IGP, in a civilian administration, is the lead security administrator, and we need to identify with him, discuss our security concerns and the need to continue to collaborate with the Police. We also met with the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service to look for ways to work together. “
The Governor noted that ongoing construction projects across the state are part of a broader plan to position the region as a key hub for trade and commerce, warning that unnecessary delays in project execution could result in deterioration of goods and weaken competitiveness in both local and international markets.
“The airport is designated as an international airport and its going to be busy with movement of people and goods around the state considering the various project construction ongoing around the state, we needed a bonded terminal, manned by custom personnel, where we can get goods in. This will facilitate trade, businesses investments and will not create delays that’ll incur demorage at the ports as it comes straight to the state and can be administered here”
The Governor further emphasized that while having a clear development agenda is important, meaningful progress depends largely on active collaboration with professionals and relevant institutions.
“You need to facilitate trade for your people. These are all ways to seek collaboration with federal agencies. You can have these agencies and as a sub national, if you don’t collaborate with them, you don’t derive the full benefits of the agencies in your state”
The renewed push is expected to drive investment, create jobs, and enhance the overall economic value of airport-linked infrastructure in the state.
