Blue Economy With Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto Tourism Potentials In Rivers State

Rivers State is the next destination for tourism through  maritime potentials as it linked with Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto,  Roland Ekama writes

The Rivers State is taking a major stride toward unlocking its maritime and blue economy potentials with the construction of the 13.52-kilometer Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto Road in Andoni.

Under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, this road cuts through challenging swampy terrain and mangrove forests, providing critical access to the Atlantic coastline and promising to transform the economic landscape of the riverine communities.On October 28, 2025, Governor Fubara personally inspected the road project, emphasizing that it represents “a new pathway to the blue economy.”

The route not only connects isolated fishing settlements but also opens up opportunities for marine tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime trade — key drivers for sustainable growth in Rivers State.

The previously inaccessible swamps and tidal waterways are now being tamed by innovative engineering and unwavering political will.

Originally meant to serve Oyorokoto Beach, one of Nigeria’s premier coastal destinations, the project scope expanded after the discovery of a pristine Atlantic-facing beachfront full of potential for tourism and marine activities.Oyorokoto, known as West Africa’s largest fishing community, stands to reap significant benefits.

With over 2,500 artisanal fishermen harvesting diverse seafood such as fish, shrimp, and crabs, the improved infrastructure will reduce transportation costs, enhance market access, and facilitate investment in fisheries and related industries.

Studies show the region’s fishery sector is profitable yet hampered by inadequate roads and facilities — challenges this project aims to resolve.Beyond fishing, the road is expected to catalyze eco-tourism growth, with prospects for water sports, coastal resorts, and hospitality ventures.

The integration of Andoni’s maritime economy into the broader Rivers State network will bolster logistics, trade, and regional development.Governor Fubara’s determination to overcome difficult terrain also saw the earlier completion of the Ogoni–Andoni–Opobo Unity Road, which connected Andoni communities to the rest of the state for the first time in decades.

The Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto Road builds on that legacy, creating a vital artery that symbolizes resilience, leadership, and a forward-looking vision for the blue economy.

Together with other ongoing infrastructure projects like the Trans-Kalabari Road, the development reflects Rivers State’s commitment to linking its riverine and coastal communities, transforming natural challenges into economic opportunities

.As night falls over Andoni’s wetlands, the shining road under floodlights serves as a beacon of hope — a testament to the transformational power of determined governance aiming to turn Rivers State’s vast maritime potentials into lasting prosperity for present and future generations.