By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive upgrade and modernisation of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s port infrastructure and improve the efficiency of the maritime sector.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, the Minister, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, said the approval was part of the Federal Government’s broader plan to develop a balanced, efficient and competitive national port system.
The latest approval comes in addition to the earlier approval for the modernisation and upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Oyetola said extending the modernisation programme to ports outside Lagos would help reduce the concentration of cargo traffic around Lagos by creating additional efficient gateways for international trade.
He said the upgrade of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports would improve cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround time, strengthen regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.
“These ports have strategic roles to play in our trade, industrial and regional development, and we are determined to equip them to meet the demands of a growing economy,” Oyetola said.
The Minister said the port modernisation programme was also part of the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s maritime sector as a major driver of economic growth, trade, investment and employment under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He noted that the modernisation of existing ports was being pursued alongside the development of new deep seaports in different parts of the country.
The projects include the Ibom Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom State, Bakassi Deep Seaport in Cross River State, Agge Deep Seaport in Bayelsa State, Gateway Deep Seaport in Ogun State, Ondo Deep Seaport in Ondo State and Bonny Deep Seaport in Rivers State.
Oyetola said combining the upgrade of existing ports with the development of new deep seaports would expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity and create stronger economic corridors across the country.
He also stressed the need for an integrated transport system where ports are effectively connected to roads, rail, inland waterways and other transport infrastructure to facilitate the seamless movement of cargo.
According to him, the Federal Government’s goal is to build an efficient, transparent and globally competitive port system that would reduce the time and cost of moving goods while creating an environment that supports investment and job creation.
Oyetola reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with state governments, terminal operators, investors, shipping companies and other stakeholders to ensure that the various projects deliver tangible improvements to Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
