Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the federal government launched a port modernization initiative on wednesday.
By prioritizing the Apapa and Tincan Island ports as pilot projects, they aim to enhance efficiency in cargo handling.
While addressing attendees at the 3rd Maritime Transportation Industry Breakfast in Lagos, Oyetola highlighted the program’s intention to overhaul aging infrastructure.
Moreover, he emphasized the ministry’s commitment to aligning Nigeria’s ports with global standards, ultimately boosting the country’s competitiveness in maritime trade.
“We are modernizing these ports to reconstruct dilapidated infrastructure and reduce delays for vessels and cargo,” Oyetola stated.
The event, themed “Prospects for Accelerated Growth and Other Matters Arising,” united industry leaders to strategize on advancing maritime operations.
Oyetola acknowledged persistent hurdles, including inadequate infrastructure, security threats, and environmental risks, but affirmed collaborative solutions would drive progress.
Furthermore, the minister outlined plans to integrate road, rail, and inland waterways with seaports, streamlining connectivity to ease congestion.
Simultaneously, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is developing a Port Community System, an automated platform to centralize documentation and slash processing times.
This digital shift aims to enhance stakeholder coordination and attract investment by simplifying port operations.
In parallel, the ministry is advancing sustainability measures, initiating Turtle Excluder Devices (TED) certification to promote eco-friendly fishing practices.
Oyetola explained this initiative would open premium markets for local fishers while safeguarding marine biodiversity.
Additionally, regulatory reforms and training programs aim to empower fishers and aquaculture businesses, fostering long-term industry resilience.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Funke Agbor, President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association, pledged support for policies strengthening maritime governance.
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic coastal advantages, she urged stronger public-private partnerships and sustained dialogue to unlock sectoral potential.
“Deliberate policies, regulatory efficiency, and stakeholder collaboration are vital to transforming Nigeria into Africa’s maritime powerhouse,” Agbor asserted.
The modernization drive underscores Nigeria’s broader ambition to harness its blue economy, combining infrastructure upgrades, sustainability, and digitization.
The government aims to curb logistics costs by revitalizing ports and enhancing multimodal transport links.
Consequently, it seeks to attract global trade and position the nation as a continental leader.
Stakeholders remain optimistic about these reforms because, if sustained, they will catalyze economic growth and solidify Nigeria’s role in shaping Africa’s maritime future.