Assures on Eastern Ports

To further disabuse minds and clarify the position of the Federal Government, the Minister of the Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has assured that the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme is a nationwide initiative, dismissing concerns that the focus is restricted to Lagos.

Speaking during the ministry’s combined citizens and stakeholders’ engagement, sectoral performance and ministerial retreat in Lagos, Oyetola stressed that inclusive infrastructure development remains central to the Ministry’s mandate.

“Let me address a concern that has been raised in some quarters — that our focus is limited to Lagos ports. This is not the case,” he said.

He informed that procurement processes are already underway for the modernisation of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, alongside the approved upgrades for Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.

“We are committed to a balanced and inclusive development of port infrastructure across the country,” Oyetola emphasised.

The Minister explained that the modernisation effort goes beyond infrastructure, describing it as “a transformative intervention” by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that will enhance port efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time, and improve cargo handling capacity.

The minister also hinted that approvals have been granted for the development of new deep seaports in Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Ondo States.

“These projects will expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, decongest existing ports, open up new economic corridors, and position our country as a leading maritime gateway in Africa,” he said.

Oyetola noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate trade, reduce the cost of doing business and attract investment across multiple sectors.

Described as a talk and do minister, stakeholders are hopeful that the Eastern Ports will receive attention and reduce pressure on the Lagos sea ports.