Coastal Highway to Open Up Economic Opportunities in Akwa Ibom — Umanah

Coastal Highway to Open Up Economic Opportunities in Akwa Ibom — Umanah

The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, development and economic expansion, assuring residents that the long-standing issues surrounding Stubbs Creek have been sufficiently clarified and resolved.

The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, gave this assurance on Wednesday while featuring as a studio guest on Comfort FM, where he addressed public concerns and legal facts surrounding the Stubbs Creek area, particularly as it relates to the ongoing Coastal Highway project linking Akwa Ibom State with Cross River State.

According to the Commissioner, attempts to obstruct the strategic federal road project necessitated an official response from the State Government’s legal department to counter misinformation and false narratives circulating on social media.

“Looking again at this issue, I believe the matter has been clearly explained and effectively settled,” Umanah stated.
He explained that claims of private ownership based on a 1913 Privy Council judgment were misleading, stressing that the judgment did not confer ownership of the land to any individual or group.

“The Honourable Attorney General clearly explained that the 1913 Privy Council judgment being referenced did not grant ownership to anyone. The area in question remains a government-reserved area,” the Commissioner clarified.

The Information Commissioner has called on all aggrieved parties and stakeholders to give peace a chance and allow the Federal Government to carry out development initiatives in the area, describing the Coastal Highway as a transformative project designed to open up the coastal corridor, stimulate economic activities, attract investment and create employment opportunities for the people.

He emphasized that sustained peace remains critical to Akwa Ibom State’s development trajectory, adding, “Let us live in peace and ensure that Akwa Ibom continues to excel.”

The Commissioner further assured that 2026 would be a landmark year for the state, with several major projects scheduled for commissioning. These include the ARISE Palm Resort, the International Convention Centre, as well as other critical infrastructure projects across the state.

“2026 will be an exciting year for Akwa Ibom people, as the dividends of purposeful governance become more visible,” he assured.

On civic participation, Dr. Umanah urged eligible residents who are yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to take advantage of ongoing registration at the nearest offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing the importance of participating actively in the democratic process.

The Akwa Ibom State Government, he reiterated, remains focused on inclusive development, peace, and prosperity for all citizens.