Abia State Governor Alex Otti has authorized an immediate feasibility study for the proposed Azumini-Obeaku Seaport and Inland Waterways Corridor, signaling a major push to establish the state as a maritime hub.
The decision followed a high-level meeting in Umuahia with a delegation from the China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), led by Mr. Nicolas Liu. The project aims to leverage Abia’s geography to create a direct link to the Atlantic via the state’s inland waterways.
Accelerated Timelines
While the Chinese technical team initially proposed a six-to-seven-month window for the feasibility assessment, Governor Otti demanded an expedited schedule to move the project into the implementation phase.
”I have directed that the study be completed within a shorter period so that progress can be accelerated,” Otti stated, emphasizing the state’s urgency in diversifying its economic base.
The Governor also instructed the CHEC team to conduct an immediate site visit to evaluate the technical demands of the location, particularly regarding its proximity to the high seas and the dredging requirements necessary for large-vessel navigation.
Regulatory and Strategic Framework
To ensure the project meets national standards, the state government is beginning the formal process of securing necessary clearances from federal authorities. Key stakeholders in these upcoming negotiations include:
- The Presidency
- The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
- The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy Economic Impact
Beyond local commerce, the administration views the Azumini Seaport as a potential catalyst for Nigeria’s broader maritime sector. The project is expected to create a more efficient logistics corridor for goods entering the South-East and South-South regions.
”The project has the potential to transform Abia State’s economy and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s maritime development,” Otti said. “With strong commitment, proper funding, and strategic partnerships, we can make the Azumini Sea Port a reality.”
The Governor expressed confidence in the partnership with China Harbour Engineering, noting that the success of the project would depend on a rigorous assessment of the site’s long-term viability.
