The Federal Government has approved the modernisation and upgrade of the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of plans to expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity and reduce the concentration of cargo traffic in Lagos.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed the approval in a statement posted on his official X handle on Sunday.
He said the decision followed an earlier approval for the modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos and was aimed at creating a more balanced national port system.
According to Oyetola, upgrading ports outside Lagos would complement existing investments while providing additional gateways for international trade.
He said the improvements at the four ports were expected to strengthen cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround times and improve regional connectivity.
“Upgraded infrastructure and improved operational efficiency at Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar Ports will enhance cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround times, strengthen regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective,” Oyetola said.
The minister said the ports had important roles in Nigeria’s trade, industrial and regional development and would be equipped to meet the demands of a growing economy.
He added that the government’s maritime expansion plans also included the development of the Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny deep seaports.
Oyetola said the government would work with state governments, terminal operators, investors, shipping companies and other stakeholders to implement the projects.
He said the broader objective was to establish an integrated maritime and logistics system connecting ports with roads, railways, inland waterways and other transport infrastructure.
The minister said the government was seeking to reduce the time and resources businesses spend moving goods while creating conditions that support investment and employment.
The latest approval follows earlier procurement processes for the modernisation of the Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar ports, alongside the previously approved upgrades of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
FG approves upgrade of Calabar, Delta, Onne, Rivers ports
