The Akwa Ibom State Government has said that the Memorandum of Understanding between it and the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority will boost Nigeria’s economic viability.
Signing the memorandum on behalf of Akwa Ibom on Thursday at Government House Uyo, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, said the project is laden with opportunities for Nigeria as a nation and the citizens.
Ekuwem also said that the MoU signals the take off of the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of the state.
According to him, this commencement follows the receipt of the first cargo components, establishment of an immigration office and setting up of a dedicated customs command, in the free trade zone.
He expressed the deep gratitude of the government and people of the state to President Muhammadu Buhari for speedy approval of the project.
Ekuwem, who thanked OGFZA management for the patriotism and commitment towards ensuring timely take off of the project, also commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for keeping faith with the project and assiduously pursuing it to reality.
“This project is for the good of Nigeria. Nigeria is as strong and stable as each of the component states. Whoever wants Nigeria to be great will not play with the socio-economic development of each of her components,” Ekuwem asserted.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of OGFZA, Mr. Umana Umana, who signed on behalf of the federal agency, said the MoU was a confirmation of the commitment of President Buhari and Governor Emmanuel to the creation of economic opportunities.
