FG ANNOUNCES COMMENCEMENT OF PORTS MODERNISATION PROGRAM IN APAPA, TINCAN
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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has announced that the ministry, in collaboration with the Nigerian Ports Authority, has commenced a port modernisation program with Apapa and Tincan Island ports as pilot projects.
Oyetola made this announcement in Lagos on Wednesday during the 3rd Maritime Transportation Industry Breakfast organised by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association.
The event was themed, ‘Prospects for accelerated growth and other matters arising’.
Represented at the event by the Director of Maritime Services of the ministry, Dr. Mercy Ilori, the minister added that the process would ensure the reconstruction of existing and dilapidated port infrastructure for improved vessel and cargo turnaround time.
“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 acknowledged that the sector still faced challenges, including infrastructure deficits, security concerns, and environmental issues.
He added that addressing the challenges requires a multifaceted approach to position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa.
Oyetola stated that the nation’s maritime sector offers vast opportunities, even as he called for a collective responsibility to harness its potential.
He said that the ministry is moving toward integrating road, rail, and inland waterways connectivity to the ports.
The Osun State’s former Governor emphasised that the integration would enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of marine transport.
According to him, another initiative undertaken by the ministry to accelerate the growth of the sector is the development of the Port Community System, an electronic platform to centralise and automate processes for stakeholders in the sector.
He said that the electronic platform would reduce processing time, ensure seamless coordination among stakeholders, and enhance the ease of doing business at the ports.
Oyetola said that the ministry is implementing the Turtle Excluder Devices certification exercise to align with global conservation efforts and regulations.
He said that this would allow fishers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
Oyetola reiterated that the initiative would open doors to new markets that prioritise eco-friendly products and ensure better prices and demand for their catch.
“The ministry has made moves toward strengthening the regulatory frameworks, enhancing the capacity of local fishers, and encouraging private sector participation in modern aquaculture techniques to ensure the long-term viability of the industry,” he said.
Earlier, the President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association, Mrs Funke Agbor, said the association remained committed to supporting the legal, institutional, and policy frameworks that underpin a thriving maritime industry.
Agbor said that the association would continue supporting the industry through advocacy, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement.
“We will continue to contribute to the sustainable development of our maritime and blue economy sector,” she said.
She said that maritime transportation sat at the heart of global trade and economic integration with an expansive coastline, strategic geographic location in Nigeria, and growing interest in the blue economy.
Agbor added that there was untapped growth potential, adding that realising the potential requires deliberate policy frameworks, effective regulatory oversight, private sector participation,, and continuous stakeholder engagement.
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