Peter Obi has promised to establish a new seaport in Bayelsa State and upgrade existing ports across the Niger Delta as part of his development agenda ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The former Anambra State governor made the pledge during a visit to Bayelsa on Friday, October 30, 2026, where he attended a homecoming ceremony organised in honour of former Bayelsa Governor Senator Henry Seriake Dickson.
Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said improved maritime infrastructure would help unlock economic opportunities for river communities and strengthen commercial activities across the Niger Delta.
His visit also featured political engagements with supporters and participation in a traditional canoe war game and boat regatta in Toru-Orua, Dickson’s hometown in Sagbama Local Government Area.
Obi Promises New Port and Niger Delta Development
Speaking about his plans for the region, Obi pledged to upgrade ports in Warri, Port Harcourt and Calabar while addressing longstanding infrastructure gaps affecting coastal communities.
He also promised to begin construction of the proposed Ibaka seaport in Akwa Ibom State and establish a new port in Bayelsa.
The former governor said the projects would improve maritime connectivity and create opportunities for economic growth in the region.
His proposals come amid continuing discussions about the need to diversify Nigeria’s maritime activities and improve infrastructure outside Lagos.
However, Obi did not provide a project timeline, estimated cost or funding arrangement for the proposed developments.
Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu Over Bayelsa Visits
During the engagement, Obi criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as a lack of direct engagement with Bayelsa State.
He alleged that Tinubu had not spent a night in Bayelsa since assuming office, despite undertaking numerous international trips.
Obi promised that his approach to governance would prioritise direct engagement with communities to understand their challenges and development needs.
The claims about Tinubu’s travel record were made by Obi and have not been independently verified.
Dickson Backs Bayelsa Seaport Project
Senator Henry Seriake Dickson also expressed support for maritime development in the state.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ gathering in Yenagoa, Dickson pledged to work towards the execution of the proposed Agge Seaport project if the NDC wins the 2027 presidential election.
The former Bayelsa governor said the project could contribute to the state’s economic development and improve its participation in maritime commerce.
Dickson also indicated that the party would present a more detailed development agenda for Bayelsa when its leaders return for official election campaigns.
Obi Joins Traditional Boat Regatta in Bayelsa
Beyond the political discussions, Obi joined Dickson and other participants in a traditional Ijaw canoe war game and boat regatta in Toru-Orua.
The cultural event featured decorated boats and traditional warriors, highlighting the historical relationship between Ijaw communities and the waterways.
The celebration formed part of Dickson’s homecoming activities and brought together political figures, community stakeholders and residents.
Obi congratulated Dickson on the occasion and thanked the people of Bayelsa for their reception.
What Obi’s Bayelsa Visit Means Ahead of 2027
The visit combined political engagement with discussions about infrastructure, economic development and the challenges facing riverine communities.
With preparations for the 2027 general elections gathering momentum, maritime development could become an important campaign issue in Bayelsa and other Niger Delta states.
For now, Obi’s proposed port projects remain campaign commitments rather than approved or funded infrastructure programmes.
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