FG VOWS TO PROTECT INDIGENOUS OPERATORS, ENSURE FAIR COMPETITION AT SEAPORTS
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By: Fasasi Hammad
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has instructed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to probe claims that indigenous barge operators are being deliberately sidelined at the country’s seaports.
Oyetola issued the directive during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, held in Lagos.
In a statement signed by the Minister’s Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, local barge operators at the forum expressed concerns about what they described as coordinated efforts by certain foreign interests to push them out of the maritime logistics value chain.
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The operators alleged that unfavourable policies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment for some foreign-linked firms by terminal operators are creating an uneven playing field. They warned that if unaddressed, the trend could reduce indigenous participation, shrink market share, and threaten the survival of local maritime businesses.
In response, the Minister emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting local investments and ensuring fair competition in the maritime industry. He directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as the port economic regulator, to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations.
Oyetola cautioned that anti-competitive practices or policy inconsistencies that disadvantage Nigerian operators would not be tolerated. He also highlighted the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement to identify sector challenges and shape policies that promote growth and sustainability.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to developing the marine and blue economy as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and national development.
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