From Nonye Udimiri, Aba
Chancellor of Gregory University, Uturu (GUU), Prof. Gregory Ibe, has said that the realization of the proposed Obeaku Seaport in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State will improve the economy of the South Eastern Region of Nigeria.
The renowned academic and entrepreneur expressed delight over the revival of the Onitsha River Port in Anambra State, stressing that it also has potential of transforming the economy of the zone.
Ibe, who said this while addressing Journalists at his country home of Uturu in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, described a functional seaport as one huge economic catalyst that the South East cannot wait to have.
He said that the proposed, but abandoned Obeaku Seaport in Abia State has the deepest shoreline and must be realized and made to function in its proper capacity and help to open other economic opportunity for all business minded Nigerians who will definitely tap from opportunities it will present.
“We should be able to open the seaport at Obeaku. It’s the deepest shoreline. It’s called the slave seaport. In the next few weeks, you’ll see many containers leaving Lagos for Onitsha for clearing.
“Seaport will actually improve our economy here. Assuming we have seaport here, ships will be coming in bringing aviation fuels, people will start developing tank farms. Those tank farms is it not our people that will work on them?
“Everywhere will change and the economy will grow. Companies will come in. Housing Estates will rise and life will become more reasonable.”
The renowned academic and entrepreneur also gave his full backing for the call for Igbo Presidency in 2023.
He said that Igbo, as one of the dominant ethnic groups in Nigeria deserve the opportunity to serve in the country’s highest political position.
“I was two years during the Biafran War. I was denied Childhood. I was living under trees with animals as a child until the war ended. I’ve told everyone to explain to me why I can’t be Nigerian President or someone from my zone can’t be?
“Everybody from South East will know that we deserve this. We will not depend on the president, but it’s all about giving us that enabling environment and sense of belonging.”
