Oron Marine Terminal, Nsit Atai–Okobo roads to transform Akwa Ibom’s coastal economy
By Theresa Donatus
Two major infrastructure projects in Akwa Ibom are on track to redefine transportation, commerce, and tourism in the state, the Oron Marine Terminal and the 14.5km Nsit Atai–Okobo Road.
The Oron Marine Terminal, a flagship project funded by the Akwa Ibom State Government and executed by JMK Construction Ltd., is taking shape as one of the most ambitious marine infrastructure developments in the region.
It features a multi-purpose terminal, jetty, shoreline protection, warehouse and cold storage for seafood and rice, and internal roadworks.
Speaking during an investigative tour with The daily Times, Engr. Ime Ikono, Project Manager disclosed; “There’s also a floating bar under construction to serve visitors and tourists, We’re building a ship in Port Harcourt for cargo, and another double-deck vessel for passengers and vehicles.”
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Engr. Ikono told the daily Times that The terminal area will also host a Joint Task Force (JTF) security post and a 2,000-vehicle public car park. The entire area will be fully asphalted.
However, he stated compensation-related delays as a major challenge that is slowing down full expansion of the site. “Once that’s resolved, we’ll move in quickly to clear and extend the work area. We’re committed to handing over by December, if all goes well.”
Meanwhile, the Nsit Atai–Okobo Road project — being handled by Hensek Integrated Services is nearly to be completed. According to site engineer John Ekongson, the road is 95% finished, with the final asphalt layer laid across most of the stretch and only minor works remaining at the junctions and drainage systems.
“We’re racing against time, but we’re confident, We’ve been working even during the rains, as you can see and expect to deliver the project by August for a September commissioning.”
The road will feature modern roundabouts at Nsit Atai and Okobo, and street lighting throughout the entire stretch, improving safety and night-time accessibility.
With completion timelines in sight, both projects are expected to open new economic and tourism gateways, particularly for the Oro Nation, and signal a major leap forward in the state’s infrastructure-driven development strategy.
