The Nigerian Government is broadening its port modernisation programme beyond Lagos, targeting major Eastern seaports for comprehensive upgrades aimed at strengthening maritime infrastructure nationwide.
The expansion forms part of a long-term strategy designed to enhance regional trade connectivity, improve vessel traffic management, and promote balanced economic growth across the country.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, made the clarification on Thursday during the ministry’s combined citizens and stakeholders’ engagement, sectoral performance review, and ministerial retreat in Lagos.
Addressing concerns that the focus might be limited to Lagos ports, Dr Oyetola emphasised, “Let me address a concern that has been raised in some quarters, that our focus is limited to Lagos ports. This is not the case.”
He explained that procurement processes have already begun for the modernisation of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, alongside ongoing upgrades for Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
“We are committed to a balanced and inclusive development of port infrastructure across the country,” he added, stressing that the initiative aims to benefit all regions equally.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Dr Oyetola described the programme as “a transformative intervention” by President Bola Tinubu’s administration that will enhance port efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times, and improve cargo handling capacity.
The Minister further revealed that approvals have been granted for the construction 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 new economic corridors, and position our country as a leading maritime gateway in Africa,” he said.
The port modernisation initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate trade, lower business costs, and attract investment across multiple sectors.
Dr Oyetola was joined at the engagement by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Fatima Mahmood, and the heads of government agencies under the Ministry, during the first quarter 2026 stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos.
