Precious Anga
Lagos — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the development of the Agge Deep Seaport in Bayelsa State, describing the project as a strategic maritime gateway expected to drive investment, create thousands of jobs and accelerate economic growth across the Niger Delta.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the proposed deep seaport remains a priority infrastructure project under the Federal Government’s plan to expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity and unlock opportunities within the blue economy.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Oyetola said the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda aimed at boosting trade, industrialisation and sustainable development across key sectors of the economy.
According to the minister, the Agge Deep Seaport is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s position in regional and international maritime trade while easing congestion at existing ports and opening new economic corridors in the South-South region.
“The Agge Deep Seaport project is a critical component of our strategy to expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and strengthen the nation’s competitiveness in regional and international trade. It will significantly contribute to job creation, economic development and investment inflows into the Niger Delta region,” Oyetola said.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is working closely with the Bayelsa State Government and other stakeholders to accelerate implementation of the project and ensure its timely delivery.
Beyond its role as a maritime facility, the minister said the port is expected to stimulate growth across several sectors, including logistics, fisheries, shipbuilding, maritime services, manufacturing and tourism.
Oyetola noted that the project would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs while attracting both domestic and foreign investment into the region, creating new opportunities for businesses and local communities.
“The Agge Deep Seaport will not only enhance Nigeria’s maritime capacity but also create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. It will stimulate local and foreign investment, accelerate economic development in the Niger Delta and strengthen the nation’s position as a maritime hub in West Africa,” he added.
The minister also commended Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, for supporting the initiative and aligning the state’s development objectives with the Federal Government’s marine and blue economy agenda.
Industry stakeholders view the Agge Deep Seaport as one of Nigeria’s most strategic maritime infrastructure projects, with the potential to transform the Niger Delta into a major logistics and trade hub while supporting the country’s ambition to become a leading maritime destination in Africa.
As the government pushes forward with implementation plans, expectations remain high that the project will serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, regional development and increased participation in global maritime trade.
