Oyetola insists ports modernisation not Lagos-centric

The Federal Government has announced that it has secured the interest of leading international partners, including AD Ports Group and DP World, to refloat a national shipping carrier in a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made the disclosure on Thursday during the Ministry’s combined citizens and stakeholders’ engagement, sectoral performance and ministerial retreat in Lagos, where he outlined ongoing efforts to boost indigenous shipping capacity.

“I am pleased to inform you that we have made significant progress toward the refloating of a National Shipping Carrier. We have secured the interest of reputable international partners who are collaborating with us to bring this vision to fruition,” he added.
According to Oyetola, the new national carrier will play a critical role in reducing dependence on foreign shipping lines, retaining maritime value within the Nigerian economy and creating employment opportunities.
The Minister revealed that the government has secured the interest of AD Ports Group and DP World to collaborate on the initiative.

He linked the initiative to other strategic interventions, including the imminent disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), which is aimed at empowering indigenous shipowners.
“By empowering local operators, we are strengthening national capacity and positioning Nigeria for greater participation in global shipping,” he said.
Addressing the issue on port infrastructure, Oyetola clarified that the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme is a nationwide initiative, dismissing concerns that the focus is restricted to Lagos.

Oyetola stressed that inclusive infrastructure development remains central to the Ministry’s mandate.
He disclosed that procurement processes are already underway for the modernisation of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, alongside the approved upgrades for Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
The Minister explained that the modernisation effort goes beyond infrastructure, describing it as “a transformative intervention” by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that will enhance port efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time, and improve cargo handling capacity.

He further revealed that approvals have been granted for the development of new deep seaports in Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Ondo States.
“These projects will expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, decongest existing ports, open up new economic corridors, and position our country as a leading maritime gateway in Africa,” he said.
Oyetola noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate trade, reduce the cost of doing business, and attract investment across multiple sectors.