Indigenous bonded terminal operators have called on the Federal Government to implement policies that prioritise local content and enforce compliance among cargo handlers to safeguard the N3.5 trillion investment in the maritime sector.

The General Secretary of the Association of the Bonded Terminal Operators (ABTO), Haruna Omolajomo, stressed the need for government intervention to ensure indigenous operators receive fair patronage and are integrated into the country’s cargo handling system.

Omolajomo urged the government to enforce local content policies that would ensure a percentage of cargo arriving at Nigerian ports is allocated to indigenous bonded terminal operators, similar to the model adopted in Ghana.

“Ghana has successfully safeguarded its economy by ensuring that a certain percentage of incoming cargo is reserved for indigenous bonded terminal operators. This deliberate local content policy has helped develop their country and empower citizens,” he stated.

He called for an urgent review of contractual obligations with port concessionaires, proposing a 60:40 ratio in favour of indigenous bonded terminals, inland ports and inland container depots (ICDs).

Omolajomo also emphasised the need for effective government monitoring agencies to enforce compliance among all operators managing cargo-handling businesses at ports. He argued that such regulatory oversight should be made public to ensure transparency and accountability.

“The government must not only set up effective monitoring agencies but also ensure that their enforcement actions are publicised. This will enhance compliance and create a level playing field for all operators,” he added.

The ABTO secretary also urged the government to involve indigenous operators in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to mobilise capital for building maritime infrastructure at Nigerian seaports. He noted that improved port facilities would boost efficiency, reduce congestion and enhance the country’s logistics competitiveness.

In addition to infrastructure development, Omolajomo advocated for increased funding for maritime education and training institutions.

“Adequate funding for these institutions will enhance their infrastructure, support research, and improve the training of professional manpower for the maritime sector,” he noted.

Omolajomo further called on the government to enforce policies that ensure ports function as transit hubs rather than cargo storage areas. He argued that delays in cargo movement contribute to congestion, inefficiency, and additional costs for businesses.