Nigeria approves upgrade of four ports in the south of the country — Premium Times Nigeria
The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a comprehensive modernization of the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports in the south of the country. This was announced by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola.
Premium Times Nigeria writes that the programme is intended to expand the country’s maritime capacity and reduce the concentration of cargo flows around Lagos. It continues the previously approved modernization of the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Reducing the burden on Lagos ports
According to Oyetola, the upgrade of the four ports is expected to improve cargo handling, reduce vessels’ time in ports and strengthen regional transport connectivity. The minister said these facilities play a strategic role in Nigeria’s trade, industry and regional development.
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Oyetola also said that the government is simultaneously modernizing existing ports and promoting the development of new deep-sea ports. Among such projects, he named Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny. According to him, this is expected to create additional gateways for international trade and make the national port system more balanced.
Port infrastructure problems
Ports in Delta State have long been underutilized. In August, state Governor Sheriff Oborevwori called on the federal authorities to restore operations at the Warri, Koko, Sapele and Burutu ports. He said this would support employment, trade and the economy of the state and the country.
The Port of Calabar has also required rehabilitation and dredging work for years. As the publication reports, citing The Punch, dredging of the channel stopped because of a dispute between the Nigerian Ports Authority and the contractor, and the government has begun an out-of-court settlement. In 2024, Nigeria’s House of Representatives called for the dredging contract to be re-awarded to a reliable company and instructed the relevant committee to examine previous contracts, The Nation reported.
