Esther Oritse
Lagos — Following the decline in the number of barging companies from 83 to eight, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has directed the leadership of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to investigate allegations of coordinated efforts aimed at undermining indigenous barge operators at the nation’s seaports.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, issued the directive 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 last week.
During the engagement, representatives of barge operators alleged that there is a coordinated and deliberate attempt by certain foreign interests to edge them out of business. They claimed that these actions, if left unchecked, could significantly weaken local capacity and disrupt the balance of competition within Nigeria’s maritime logistics chain.
The operators expressed concern that policies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment allegedly being accorded to some foreign-linked entities by certain terminal operators are creating an uneven playing field. According to them, these challenges are gradually eroding their market share and threatening the survival of indigenous businesses.
Responding to the concerns, the Minister emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting local investments and ensuring fair competition within the maritime industry. He directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as the port economic regulator, to carry out a thorough and impartial investigation into the claims.
Oyetola stressed that any form of anti-competitive behaviour or policy inconsistency that disadvantages Nigerian businesses would not be tolerated.
The Minister also reiterated the importance of stakeholder engagement as a platform for identifying sectoral challenges and shaping responsive policy interventions. He noted that the government remains focused on strengthening the marine and blue economy sector as a driver of national growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
