By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity and reduce the concentration of cargo traffic in Lagos.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the approval in Abuja, saying it complements the earlier approval for the upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Oyetola said the programme was designed to create a more balanced, efficient and competitive port system capable of supporting trade, investment and job creation.
He said upgrading the four ports would improve cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround time, strengthen regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.
“This approval marks another important step in our determination to transform Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and unlock the enormous economic potential of our ports,” the minister said.
The latest approvals are part of a wider expansion of the country’s maritime infrastructure, which also includes plans for new deep seaports at Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny.
According to Oyetola, modernizing existing ports alongside developing new deep seaports would increase Nigeria’s capacity to handle growing trade volumes and strengthen economic corridors across the country.
He said the Federal Government was also working towards an integrated maritime and logistics network linking ports with roads, railways, inland waterways and other transport infrastructure.
“Our ambition is to build a port system that is efficient, transparent and globally competitive. We want Nigerian businesses to spend less time and resources moving their goods, while creating an environment that encourages investment and supports job creation,” he said.
Oyetola reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with state governments, terminal operators, investors, shipping companies and other stakeholders to ensure the projects deliver tangible improvements to Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
