PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Maritime workers and other stakeholders in Rivers State have issued the Federal Government a four-day ultimatum to address deteriorating roads and other challenges affecting operations around the Onne Port, warning that failure to act could trigger a shutdown of the facility.
The stakeholders said the condition of major access roads leading to the port has continued to create serious difficulties for workers, businesses, truck operators and other users of the maritime corridor.
They also raised concerns over the controversial E-Call system, which they said had added to the challenges confronting operators within the port environment.
The ultimatum reflects growing frustration among maritime stakeholders over what they described as prolonged neglect of critical infrastructure supporting activities at one of Nigeria’s important port facilities.
According to the stakeholders, the poor condition of the roads has affected the movement of cargo, increased operational difficulties and created additional pressure for businesses that depend on efficient access to the port.
They warned that unless the Federal Government responds to their demands within four days, maritime workers and other stakeholders could take industrial action that may result in the temporary shutdown of operations at Onne Port.
The proposed shutdown could have wider implications for businesses and cargo movement in the region, given the importance of the port to maritime activities and the wider economy of the Niger Delta.
The stakeholders called for urgent intervention by the relevant federal authorities, insisting that the roads and other infrastructure serving the port require immediate attention.
They also urged the government to review the implementation of the E-Call system and address concerns raised by port users over its operation.
The maritime workers said they remained committed to supporting efficient port operations but maintained that the current challenges could no longer be ignored.
They appealed to the Federal Government to use the four-day window to engage with affected stakeholders and implement practical measures capable of resolving the issues.
The ultimatum has now placed pressure on the authorities to respond quickly, as failure to reach an agreement could lead to disruption of activities at the Onne Port.
Stakeholders said their objective was not to cripple maritime operations but to compel the government to address infrastructure and operational problems that they believe are affecting the efficiency and sustainability of the port.
They therefore urged the government to act before the expiration of the ultimatum in order to prevent a shutdown and avoid further economic losses.
