Authority dismisses neglect claims, assures stakeholders of ongoing infrastructure upgrades
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to revitalising the country's Eastern Ports, dismissing claims that the facilities have been neglected and insisting that major rehabilitation projects are already underway to improve their capacity and competitiveness.
The assurance was given by the Manager of the Rivers Port Complex, Kenechi Okaeze, during an interactive session with members of the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) in Port Harcourt. Okaeze represented the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, at the event.
Her remarks came in response to concerns from industry stakeholders over the pace of development at the Eastern Ports and their declining share of cargo traffic.
Rejecting suggestions that the ports had been abandoned, Okaeze said the NPA remains committed to restoring their operational strength.
"It is not correct to say that management has abandoned the Eastern Ports. Some facilities are already being rehabilitated and management remains committed to their development."
Infrastructure Upgrade Underway
According to Okaeze, one of the key projects currently in progress is the reconstruction and strengthening of Berths Seven and Eight at the Rivers Port Complex.
She explained that the project is aimed at improving operational efficiency, extending the lifespan of the port infrastructure and enabling the facility to receive larger vessels.
In addition to the berth rehabilitation, she said navigation channels are being dredged to increase their depth, allowing bigger cargo ships to berth directly at the Eastern Ports.
The improved channels, she noted, are expected to reduce logistics costs by limiting the need to transport imported cargo by road from ports in other parts of the country.
Strategic Importance of Eastern Ports
Okaeze stressed that the Eastern Ports occupy a strategic location close to major commercial and industrial markets, making their revitalisation important for the country's maritime and logistics sectors.
She said increasing cargo volumes through the ports would not only improve efficiency but also reduce pressure on Nigeria's road network by cutting the long-distance movement of goods from ports located farther away.
The shift, she added, would also help minimise safety risks associated with heavy cargo haulage on highways.
Optimism for Growth
Expressing confidence in the ongoing rehabilitation programme, Okaeze assured stakeholders that the investments being made by the Federal Government would restore the Eastern Ports as key gateways for international trade.
"I assure you that very soon the Eastern Ports will begin to experience significant growth again."
She maintained that the ongoing modernisation efforts are designed to strengthen Nigeria's port infrastructure, improve maritime logistics and position the Eastern Ports to attract more vessel traffic and investment in the years ahead.