Burutu, Delta State — In a strategic push to revive Delta State’s maritime economy and reposition the state as a key trading hub in West Africa, the Delta State Economic Management Team (EMT), led by the Deputy Governor, undertook a high-level inspection of the Akewa Colman Terminal Ltd (ACTL) port project, formerly known as Burutu Port, situated in Iduwini Kingdom, Burutu Local Government Area. The official visit was hosted by The Akewa Colman Terminal Ltd. (ACTL); it was a strong signal of the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to unlocking the economic potential of Delta’s coastal corridor. The delegation embarked on a tour along the historic Forcados River, a major distributary of the Niger River, which connects riverine communities across Delta and Bayelsa States. The calm waters and strategic layout of the terrain were lauded for their natural alignment with maritime development plans. A Team of Titans Prominent figures in the delegation included: Chief Fidelis Okenmor Tilije – Delta State Commissioner for Finance Hon. (Barr.) Christopher Ifeanyi Osakwe – Deputy Chief of Staff Dr. Barr. Gbe – Chief Economic Adviser to the State Government Hon. Samuel Ologida, Commissioner for Trade and investment. Barr. Mrs Lyna Ochulor, Private Secretary to the Governor. Echoes from the Past, Vision for the Future Addressing the guests, Chief Kenneth Donye, Chairman of Akewa Colman Terminal Ltd (ACTL), chronicled the rich maritime history of the terminal, dating back to 1887 when it was first commissioned by Lord Lugard — making it the first modern seaport in Africa. The port once facilitated robust trade routes between Nigeria, Britain, Cameroon, and parts of Europe. He revealed that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has granted a 40-year Master Port Concession and that the terminal’s revival would require a Strategic Investment Model (SIM) worth $68 million. He affirmed that, once fully operational, the port would generate thousands of jobs, promote exports, and attract long-term foreign investment to the Delta. Monarch's Appeal and Vision His Royal Majesty, Bosu Dio (JP), Ayamabulou I – The Ibenanaowei of Iduwini Kingdom, applauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme for embracing the port's restoration as a state priority. He called for immediate intervention in local infrastructure, including road access, electrification, and the permanent site for the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic in Burutu. “This project is not just about trade; it’s about pride, identity, and opportunity for our people,” the monarch emphasized, urging government-federal synergy for sustained implementation. Burutu LGA Chairman Backs Project In a passionate address, Chief Julius Takeme echoed the economic urgency of the project. He urged the state government to secure equity and reinforce technical support to accelerate project delivery. “This port can be the economic heartbeat of the Niger Delta. We must not let the momentum die,” he said, while praising Governor Oborevwori’s people-first leadership style. Government’s Commitment: A New Dawn Representing the Deputy Governor, Chief Fidelis Tilije, Commissioner for Finance, delivered a strong message from Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, reaffirming the government’s unwavering support for the maritime revival initiative. “The restoration of this historic port is not just symbolic — it’s strategic,” Tilije noted. “It will transform Burutu, stimulate employment across riverine towns like Warri and Koko, and place Delta on the global maritime map once again.” He further disclosed that technical assessments using updated maritime charts have been conducted to anticipate rehabilitation needs. He also praised the resilience of the port’s old structure, describing it as “a heritage site of economic importance.” The government also acknowledged community needs, including security and access roads, promising to table them before the State Executive Council. Community Stakeholding In a landmark remark, the team celebrated ACTL’s inclusive model, which grants the host community a 5% stake in the revived port — a move hailed as a template for people-driven development in Nigeria’s maritime sector. “We believe this visit will mark the beginning of real transformation,” the Deputy Governor’s message concluded. “By God’s grace, this port will soon host its first vessel in decades — a victory for Delta and for Nigeria.” The Path Forward The visit ended on a high note with goodwill messages, community cultural presentations, and commendations from opinion leaders, ACTL staff, and women groups. This milestone inspection signals a bold leap toward restoring Burutu Port’s legacy and transforming it into a modern maritime economic hub — not just for Delta State, but for the entire West African sub-region.