The Federal Government has commenced a significant overhaul of Nigeria’s key seaports, starting with Apapa and Tincan Island, as part of a port modernisation programme.
The programme which is aimed at cutting delays and boosting efficiency is in conjunction with the Nigerian Ports Authority.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by the Director of Maritime Services, Dr Mercy Ilori, announced the initiative at the 3rd Maritime Transportation Industry Breakfast in Lagos on Wednesday.
“The ministry has begun a port modernisation program with Apapa and Tincan Island Ports as pilot projects to ensure the reconstruction of existing and dilapidated port infrastructure for improved vessel and cargo turnaround time,” Oyetola said
The Minister promised that the reconstruction of ageing infrastructure at the pilot ports will pave the way for faster vessel and cargo turnaround.
Despite the move, Oyetola acknowledged the sector’s persistent problems, ranging from crumbling infrastructure and security threats to environmental concerns, while stressing that fixing these requires “a multifaceted approach” to truly reposition Nigeria as a continental maritime powerhouse.
The former Osun State’s governor further revealed the ministry’s strategy to connect ports to roads, rail lines, and inland waterways, assuring that this initiative will ease congestion and strengthen marine transport nationwide
The former Osun State’s governor assured that the strategy will ease congestion and strengthen logistics flow nationwide.
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On the environmental front, Oyetola said that the implementation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) certification exercise aligns with global conservation efforts and regulations.
According to him, TEDs would allow fishers demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
“The use of TEDs signals our fishers’ commitment to sustainability and positions their products for better prices and wider demand,” he said, adding that the ministry is also pushing for modern aquaculture practices and stronger regulatory backing.
Meanwhile, the President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association, Mrs. Funke Agbor, had earlier reaffirmed the association’s commitment to strengthening the industry’s legal and policy frameworks through advocacy, capacity building, and engagement.
She described Nigeria’s maritime landscape—bolstered by its strategic coastline and rising blue economy—as a sleeping giant with untapped potential.
