The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced this in a post on X, saying the approval builds on earlier plans to modernise Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Oyetola said the move is part of efforts to develop a balanced, efficient and globally competitive national port system.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, infrastructure renewal and economic diversification remain central to the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
“Modern and efficient ports are critical to this vision because they facilitate trade, support industry, attract investment and create jobs.”
He said extending the modernisation beyond Lagos will complement ongoing investments in Apapa and Tin Can, reduce concentration of cargo traffic around Lagos and create additional efficient gateways for international trade.
According to the minister, upgraded infrastructure and improved operational efficiency at the four eastern ports will enhance cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround times, strengthen regional connectivity and make movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.
“These ports have strategic roles to play in our trade, industrial and regional development, and we are determined to equip them to meet the demands of a growing economy,” he added.
Oyetola said the approval is part of broader expansion of maritime infrastructure, including federal approvals for development of Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny deep seaports.
“Our approach is comprehensive. We are modernising existing ports while facilitating development of new deep seaports,” he said.
