The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed that the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme is a nationwide initiative, dispelling claims that it is concentrated solely in Lagos.
Speaking at the Ministry’s combined citizens and stakeholders’ engagement, sectoral performance review, and ministerial retreat in Lagos, Oyetola stressed that equitable infrastructure development remains a core priority of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He revealed that procurement processes are already underway for the upgrade of key eastern ports, including Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, in addition to the approved modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
According to the Minister, the initiative represents more than infrastructure renewal, describing it as a transformative intervention aimed at improving operational efficiency, reducing vessel turnaround time, and enhancing cargo handling capacity across Nigerian ports.
Oyetola also disclosed that approvals have been secured for the development of new deep seaports in Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Ondo States, as part of efforts to expand the nation’s maritime footprint.
He noted that the projects are expected to decongest existing ports, unlock new economic corridors, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime gateway in Africa, while supporting the Federal Government’s broader economic diversification agenda.
Stakeholders say the move could significantly lower the cost of doing business and attract increased investment into the maritime sector and beyond.
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