Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, has revealed plans to seek approvals from the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a proposed seaport and inland waterways project aimed at boosting maritime infrastructure and economic growth in the state.
Otti disclosed this on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in a statement shared through his official X account after meeting with a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited led by Mr. Nicolas Liu.
According to the governor, the meeting centred on discussions surrounding the proposed Azumini–Obeaku Sea Port and Inland Waterways Corridor project in Abia State.
“We received a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited led by Mr. Nicolas Liu, where we discussed the proposed Azumini–Obeaku Sea Port and Inland Waterways Corridor project in Abia State,” Otti stated.
He explained that preliminary work on the project has already begun, including approval for a feasibility study to determine its viability. Otti added that he directed the company to shorten its initial six to seven-month timeline in order to speed up progress.
“I have granted approval for an immediate feasibility study on the project. While the company initially proposed a six to seven-month timeline, I directed that the study be concluded within a shorter period to accelerate progress,” he said.
The governor also stated that his administration would begin engagements with key federal institutions to obtain the approvals needed to move the project forward.
“Alongside the study, we will commence the process of securing approvals from the Presidency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Blue Economy,” he added.
Otti further stressed the importance of technical evaluations, urging the visiting team to inspect the proposed site and assess its suitability, especially considering its proximity to the high sea and the dredging requirements involved.
He described the project as a major economic opportunity capable of transforming Abia State and strengthening Nigeria’s maritime sector through improved trade, logistics, and industrial activities.
“The project has the potential to transform Abia State’s economy and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s maritime development. With commitment, adequate funding, and strategic partnerships, we can make the Azumini Sea Port a reality,” Otti stated.
The governor also commended the Chinese engineering firm for its presentation and expressed optimism about the feasibility study’s outcome.
The proposed Azumini–Obeaku corridor project is expected to position Abia as a strategic maritime hub in southeastern Nigeria, pending approvals from the Tinubu administration and relevant federal agencies.