By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing ports outside Lagos to improve trade efficiency, strengthen maritime infrastructure and stimulate economic activities across the country.
Oyetola gave the assurance on Friday at the 2026 World Maritime Day celebration held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, where he outlined plans to develop a more balanced network of maritime gateways.
He identified Onne, Warri and Calabar ports as key targets of the modernization programme, which complements ongoing efforts at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to developing deep seaports at Agge, Bakassi, Bonny, Gateway, Ibom and Ondo.
According to him, the initiative is designed to expand port capacity, improve operational efficiency and reduce pressure on Lagos by distributing maritime activities across different parts of the country.
The minister explained that the government was pursuing an integrated transport network linking seaports, inland dry ports and production centres through roads, railways and inland waterways.
He said the strategy would bring cargo closer to producers and consumers, reduce haulage costs, strengthen exports and encourage the growth of industrial and logistics clusters nationwide.
Oyetola also emphasized the importance of inland ports and waterways, including Onitsha and Baro, in connecting businesses and production centres to national and international markets.
He added that the ministry was working with relevant agencies and investors to translate port development plans into functional infrastructure, efficient cargo handling, navigable channels and reliable transport connections.
The minister further highlighted the Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency Act, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen economic regulation, promote fair competition and improve service delivery across the port system.
He noted that sustained investment in port infrastructure and improved connectivity would reduce logistics costs, attract investments, support exports and create employment opportunities across the country.
The celebration attracted maritime industry leaders, heads of government agencies, lawmakers and other stakeholders.
In his goodwill message, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun, called for an end to attacks on seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz.
