FG Moves Against ‘Foreign Takeover’ of Barge Operations

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to investigate allegations of systemic marginalisation of indigenous barge operators at Nigeria’s seaports.
The directive was issued during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy held in Lagos.
Barge operators at the forum raised concerns over what they described as a coordinated effort by foreign-linked interests to edge local players out of the market. They warned that such actions could weaken indigenous capacity and distort competition within the maritime logistics value chain.
The operators further alleged that certain terminal operators are granting preferential treatment to foreign-affiliated entities, creating operational bottlenecks and policy disadvantages for local businesses.
In response, Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting local investments and ensuring a level playing field in the maritime sector. He tasked the NSC, as the port economic regulator, with conducting a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the claims.
The Minister stressed that anti-competitive practices and policies that undermine Nigerian businesses will not be tolerated, reiterating the government’s resolve to promote fairness, transparency, and sustainability in the industry.
He also highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping responsive policies, noting that the marine and blue economy remains a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and national development.