Udom Emmanuel, governor of Akwa Ibom state, on Saturday, commissioned a nine meter fast security escort vessel: “MV Norfin Swift” built by Norfin Offshore Shipyard Limited in the Oruk-Anam area of the state.
The event which took place at the Shipyard located along the Oruk-Anam axis of the East-West road, also culminated in the official unveiling of the multi-billion naira shipyard by the governor.
Speaking on the occasion, the governor reiterated the readiness of the state government to partner the Norfin Group.
He lauded Charles Udonwa, the investor, a singaporean-based ship builder for his decision to site the shipyard in the state, noting that the gesture is worthy of emulation.
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He condemned the recent attack on the shipyard and charged the host community to see the investment as an asset that must be protected, noting that irrespective of the location, the shipyard would benefit the entire country.
“Today marks a seeds harvest. In the entire gulf of guinea we don’t take this for granted. But it is worthy of emulation. I hope the host community will behave well. My brother Charles I share your pains in the last attack. Whatever we are going to do as a state government to ameliorate that pain, we will do. Locating this facility here is for the benefit of the entire country,” he said.
On his part, Ukpong Akpabio, commissioner for trade and investment, said the Emmanuel administration is determined to partner Norfin Group towards rebuilding an industry that will contribute in high percentage to Nigeria’s GDP, and also create job opportunities for Akwa Ibom youths.
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In their goodwill messages, Majid Ibrahim, the commander, Nigeria Navy, NNS, Jubilee, Ikot Abasi, Udo Kierian Akpan, leader, Akwa Ibom house of assembly, and Eke George, the president, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria, described the investment as historic and hailed the governor for “creating an investment friendly environment in the state”.
Udonwa appreciated the state government, saying his company’s presence in the state will help Akwa Ibom become a major player in the nation’s oil and gas industry.
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