Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has said it has noted with concern the recent remarks made by the former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, regarding the Federal Government’s approval of the $1 billion modernisation of the Apapa and TinCan Island Ports in Lagos.

According to the ministry, while it welcomes constructive dialogue on national development, it is important to correct the misleading impression created by Obi’s comments.

A statement signed by Dr Bolaji Akinola, the Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, noted that the minister had consistently stated at various fora that the Federal Government was modernising and upgrading the nation’s ports in a comprehensive and inclusive manner, not concentrating efforts solely in Lagos.

It noted that the ministry had commenced the procurement process for the renovation and modernisation of the ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne, saying: “These projects are being undertaken alongside the Lagos port modernisation initiative.”

Forming part of a coordinated national strategy to revitalise and expand maritime infrastructure across all regions of the country”.

It added that the ministry was working closely with the respective state governments and private investors to develop new deep seaports that would further strengthen the nation’s maritime capacity.

“These include the Agge Deep Seaport in Bayelsa State, the Ibom Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom State, the Bonny Deep Seaport in Rivers State, and a deep seaport in Cross River State. Each of these projects reflects the ministry’s commitment to balanced development and regional economic inclusion within the framework of the national blue economy,” the statement added, among other clarifications.