Tinubu Makes Major Announcement in Akwa Ibom, Approves Deep Sea Port as Flamingos Make World Cup History

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned from his South-South engagements with two major developments for Nigeria, celebrating the Flamingos’ historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup triumph while approving the long-awaited Ibom Deep Sea Port project in Akwa Ibom State.

The President announced the approval of the deep sea port during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, following a request by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno.

Tinubu described the project as a major economic opportunity for the state and the wider South-South region, saying it would create jobs, attract investments and accelerate industrial development.

“Your request for the Ibom Deep Sea Port is hereby approved. The Ibom Deep Sea Port will bring associated economic value and economic development to the people,” the President declared.

The approval represents a significant development for the state, which has long pursued the establishment of the port as part of its ambition to become a major maritime and industrial hub.

The proposed deep sea port is projected to generate more than 300,000 direct and indirect jobs between 2027 and 2050. It is also expected to anchor the planned 14,517-hectare Ibom Industrial City, which will accommodate industries in petrochemicals, agro-processing, marine services and automobile assembly.

The wider development plan includes a proposed 2,151-megawatt power plant, Free Trade Zone status and multimodal transport connections involving road, rail and Victor Attah International Airport.

During his visit, Tinubu also commissioned the new airport terminal building, Ring Road 3 and the Arise Palm Resort, highlighting infrastructure development as part of the Federal Government’s engagement with Akwa Ibom.

The President further urged young Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Meanwhile, Tinubu’s return to Abuja coincided with another historic moment for the country as Nigeria’s Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, reportedly followed the final as the Nigerian girls secured the country’s first-ever title in the women’s U-17 competition, becoming the first African nation to lift the trophy.

Reacting to the victory, Tinubu expressed excitement, describing the achievement as a moment of immense national pride.

“What wonderful news to return home to, and what a proud moment for Nigeria!” he said.

“Our young girls have conquered the world, made history and brought immense honour to Nigeria and the African continent.”

The President praised the players for their courage, discipline and determination, recalling their promise after defeating Brazil in the semi-final to return home with the trophy.

He said the team had fulfilled that promise and described their achievement as an inspiration to millions of Nigerian girls who aspire to compete and succeed at the highest level.

Tinubu congratulated the players, coaching crew, Nigeria Football Federation, National Sports Commission and everyone who contributed to the historic victory.

The Flamingos secured the championship through goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute. Japan’s Fuki Ito scored in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on to win 2-1.

Umejiaku was also named the tournament’s best player, receiving the adidas Golden Ball after an outstanding campaign in which she scored four goals and provided two assists.

The victory completed a remarkable turnaround for coach Akeem Busari’s team, who recovered from a group-stage defeat to Poland to win six consecutive matches and claim the championship.

The Flamingos’ achievement also made Nigeria the first African country to win both the men’s and women’s FIFA U-17 World Cup competitions.

From approving a major maritime infrastructure project with the potential to transform Akwa Ibom’s economy to celebrating Nigeria’s historic achievement on the global football stage, Tinubu’s South-South visit ended with two significant developments that have drawn national attention.