Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has unveiled plans to build eight new deep seaports across the country as part of its strategy to position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa.
The proposed deep seaports will be located in Badagry, Ilaje, Olokola, Agge, Ibaka, Burutu, Snake Island, and Bakassi.
According to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, these projects are expected to enhance trade, reduce congestion at existing ports, and attract foreign investments into Nigeria’s blue economy.
Oyetola, made this announcement recently during an interactive session with the Nigerian Guild of Editors, emphasizing the economic and job creation potential of the maritime sector.
“The vision of the Ministry is to ensure that the country’s marine resources are harnessed sustainably to position Nigeria as a premier maritime nation,” Oyetola stated.
The Minister also highlighted ongoing modernization efforts at the country’s existing ports, revealing that the Western Ports (Apapa and Tin Can Island) have already secured approvals for upgrades, while the process for the Eastern Ports was being fast-tracked.
“These modernization projects will generate over 20,000 jobs,” he noted, underscoring the employment opportunities that the sector is expected to create.
Oyetola further disclosed that the introduction of the National Single Window and the Port Community System will streamline port operations and facilitate smoother trade processes.
Additionally, he highlighted Nigeria’s maritime security achievements, stating that piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea have remained at zero levels for the past three years due to the implementation of the Deep Blue Sea Project and Falcon Eye Surveillance Systems.
On Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat in the International Maritime Organization, the Minister revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given his approval, and preparations for the election are underway.
Oyetola called on the media and private sector stakeholders to partner with the government in driving Nigeria’s maritime sector forward.
“This engagement is not just about presenting our achievements but about fostering dialogue and collaboration,” he emphasized.
The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, commended the government’s efforts, noting that the development of deep seaports and modernization of existing ones will significantly improve Nigeria’s trade and economic outlook.
