The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive modernisation and upgrade programme for the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to reposition Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, who disclosed this, said the latest approval complemented the earlier approval for the modernisation and upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
In a statement by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Ajibola, Oyetola said the development was aimed at strengthening port infrastructure, improving operational efficiency and enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He said the approvals formed part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to reposition the maritime sector as a driver of economic growth, trade, investment and employment, while creating a more balanced national port system.
Oyetola said: “This approval marks another important step in our determination to transform Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and unlock the enormous economic potential of our ports.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made it clear that infrastructure renewal and economic diversification are central to the growth of the economy. Efficient and competitive ports are critical to achieving these objectives because they facilitate trade, support industry, attract investment and create jobs.”
The minister said extending the modernisation programme to ports outside Lagos would complement investments in Apapa and Tin Can Island ports and help reduce the concentration of cargo traffic around Lagos by creating additional gateways for international trade.
He said improved infrastructure and operational efficiency at Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports would enhance cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround times, improve regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.
