The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday clarified that the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme is a nationwide initiative, dismissing claims that it is focused solely on Lagos.
Speaking at the ministry’s combined citizens and stakeholders’ engagement, sectoral performance review and ministerial retreat in Lagos, Oyetola emphasised that inclusive infrastructure development remains a core priority of the administration.
“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 said.
In a press release sign by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola the Minister disclosed that procurement processes are already underway for the upgrade of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar, in addition to the approved modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
“We are committed to a balanced and inclusive development of port infrastructure across the country,” he stressed.
Oyetola described the modernisation programme as a transformative intervention under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at boosting efficiency across Nigeria’s maritime sector.
According to him, the initiative will significantly reduce vessel turnaround time, improve cargo handling capacity, and enhance overall port operations.
He further revealed that approvals have been secured for the development 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 up new economic corridors, and position our country as a leading maritime gateway in Africa,” he said.
The Minister added that the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate trade, lower the cost of doing business, and attract investments across key sectors.