19 years on, Jos Inland Container Depot remains incomplete, stakeholders express frustration

DDM News

Nineteen years after its launch, the Jos Inland Container Depot (JICD) remains unfinished.

The project, located in Heipang, Plateau State, was meant to decongest seaports and boost regional economic growth as gathered by Diaspora Digital Media (DDM).

Stakeholders from the North Central zone have raised fresh concerns over the delay.

They lament that the state is losing potential benefits such as job creation and increased trade opportunities.

During a recent forum in Jos, many expressed disappointment over the prolonged inactivity at the site.

The meeting was organized by the North Central Coordinating Office of the Nigerian Shippers Council.

Mr. Danlami Jelka, Managing Director of Plateau Investment and Property Development Company, criticized the pace of work.

He said the project, started nearly two decades ago, is less than 40 percent complete.

Jelka stressed the need for railway connectivity to ensure the depot functions properly.

He added that the rail line to Jos has been moribund for a long time.

According to him, reviving the rail network is crucial for the depot’s success.

A representative of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria also called for improved transport infrastructure.

Another stakeholder, Mr. Makwil Benard from Bokkos, highlighted the struggles of local farmers.

He said perishable goods are often wasted due to poor transportation options.

Farmers are forced to sell produce at very low prices, suffering massive losses.

Benard believes the dry port would solve this issue once operational.

The project has faced several setbacks since its inception.

In 2014, parts of the facility were demolished by the then-state government under Jonah Jang.

In 2021, the Plateau State Government bought out the original concessionaire, Duncan Maritime Ventures, for N2.2 billion.

Despite this intervention, the project remains far from completion.

The Nigerian Shippers Council has now reassured stakeholders of renewed efforts to finish the port.

NSC Executive Secretary, Pius Akutah, said collaboration with Plateau State Government is ongoing.

He explained that the council is searching for a capable investor to revive the stalled project.

The investor must have both the financial capacity and commitment to deliver.

Akutah said past failures resulted from engaging investors lacking the needed resources and expertise.

He added that only serious and capable investors would be considered moving forward.

The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is closely monitoring the situation.

Akutah emphasized the importance of this dry port as a legacy project.

He reaffirmed the council’s dedication to developing inland dry ports nationwide.

He also encouraged local businesses to utilize services at the Shippers Council’s North-Central Zonal Office.

According to him, this will help them improve logistics and trade operations.

Plateau State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Salihu Mohammed, echoed the federal government’s commitment.

He said discussions with potential investors are already underway.

Mohammed stressed the state’s determination to ensure the dry port becomes functional soon.

NSC North Central Coordinator, Mr. Jeremiah Okoliko, added that Jos cannot be left behind.

He urged that urgent action be taken to operationalize the facility.

As other inland ports across Nigeria are progressing, stakeholders want the Jos project completed.

They hope a capable investor and renewed commitment will bring the long-awaited project to life.

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