China Harbour Begins Feasibility Survey for Proposed Obeaku Seaport in Abia State

 China Harbour Begins Feasibility Survey for Proposed Obeaku Seaport in Abia State A significant step towards establishing a seaport in Abia...

 China Harbour Begins Feasibility Survey for Proposed Obeaku Seaport in Abia State

A significant step towards establishing a seaport in Abia State has commenced as a technical team from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) has started feasibility and hydrographic surveys for the proposed Obeaku Seaport.

The survey team, accompanied by senior Abia State Government officials, visited the Obeaku community in Ukwa East Local Government Area to conduct critical assessments of the waterways, including bathymetric and navigational studies. These assessments aim to determine the technical viability, environmental considerations, and requirements for developing the seaport and its associated inland waterways corridor.

The development follows Governor Dr. Alex Otti’s approval for the immediate commencement of the feasibility study. During a meeting with a CHEC delegation led by Marketing Manager Nicolas Liu, the governor directed that the study be completed in a shorter timeframe than the company’s initial six-to-seven-month proposal to accelerate progress on the project.

CHEC, renowned for its role in constructing Nigeria’s Lekki Deep Sea Port, is partnering with the Abia State Government on this initiative. The proposed Azumini-Obeaku Seaport and Inland Waterways Corridor is expected to boost economic activities, create thousands of jobs, facilitate easier movement of goods, and strengthen maritime trade links for Abia State and the entire South-East region.

In a show of strong community support, the Aku of Obeaku Kingdom, His Royal Highness Eze Ikeagwuchi Ekeke, reaffirmed the community’s full backing for the project and announced the donation of over 2,000 plots of land to support its realisation. The traditional ruler also advocated for the project to be officially named Obeaku Seaport.

Governor Otti’s administration views the project as a key component of its infrastructure and economic transformation agenda. Officials described the commencement of the surveys as a major milestone that moves the state beyond promises to concrete action.

The feasibility study will evaluate various factors, including the depth and navigability of the Imo River and surrounding waterways, to determine whether the site can support a viable seaport operation. Positive outcomes from the study could pave the way for full project development in the near future.

This development has generated excitement among residents and stakeholders, who see it as a potential game-changer for commerce, especially for industries in Aba and surrounding commercial hubs.

Further updates on the feasibility study’s findings are expected in the coming months.