FG Approves Modernisation of Four Ports to Ease Lagos Cargo Congestion
The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastucture and reduce the concentration of cargo traffic in Lagos.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this in a statement posted on his
official X handle, recently.
Oyetola said the approval builds on the earlier approval for the modernisation and upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos, describing the initiative as part of efforts to establish a balanced and globally competitive
port system.
He said the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on infrastructure renewal and economic diversification.
According to the minister, modern and efficient ports are critical to facilitating trade, supporting industries,
attracting investment and creating jobs.
He explained that extending the modernisation programme beyond Lagos would complement ongoing investments in the state while easing the concentration of cargo traffic around Lagos and providing additional gateways for
international trade.
Oyetola said the upgrades at Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports would improve cargo handling, reduce vessel turnaround times and strengthen regional connectivity.
He added that the four ports play strategic roles in Nigeria’s trade, industrial and regional development, stressing
that the government was committed to equipping them to meet the demands of a growing economy.
The minister said the modernisation programme formed part of a broader plan to expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure, including the development of the Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateay, Ondo and Bonny deep seaports.
“Our approach is comprehensive. We are modernising existing ports while facilitating the development of new deep seaports,” Oyetola said.
He said the combined investments would expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, create stronger economic corridors and position the country as a major maritime and logistics hub in Africa.
Oyetola added that the ministry would work with state governments, terminal operators, investors, shipping companies and other stakeholders to ensure the projects deliver tangible improvements to the marine and blue economy.
He said the government’s vision was to create an integrated maritime and logistics system where ports, roads, rail, inland waterways and other transport infrastructure work together to facilitate the seamless movement of cargo.
The minister said the initiative was also aimed at reducing the time and resources Nigerian businesses spend moving goods, while creating an environment conducive to investment and job creation.
On April 3, 2026, the Federal Government commenced 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, as part of efforts to strengthen maritime infrastructure nationwide.
