FG rehabilitating Eastern ports, NPA assures stakeholders

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has moved to dispel rumors of neglect concerning the Eastern Ports. Kenechi Okaeze, Manager of the Rivers Port Complex, representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, asserted that significant infrastructure upgrades are underway to restore the ports' competitiveness.

Okaeze addressed concerns from stakeholders during an interactive session with the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON). She stated that facilities are actively being rehabilitated and management is committed to the development of these vital economic hubs. "It is not correct to say that management has abandoned the Eastern Ports," she affirmed, highlighting ongoing reconstruction and strengthening of Berths Seven and Eight at the Rivers Port Complex.

“

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.

Further enhancing operational efficiency, navigation channels are being deepened to accommodate larger vessels. This initiative aims to allow bigger ships to berth directly, thereby reducing logistics costs and easing the burden on road infrastructure, which currently handles much of the cargo. The NPA emphasized the strategic proximity of the Eastern Ports to key commercial markets, underscoring their revival's critical role in Nigeria’s maritime logistics.

Increased vessel traffic to the Eastern Ports is also expected to mitigate safety risks associated with long-distance cargo haulage by road. Okaeze expressed strong optimism, assuring stakeholders that the rehabilitation program will soon lead to significant growth and restore the ports to their former strategic importance in Nigeria's maritime sector.

“

I assure you that very soon the Eastern Ports will begin to experience significant growth again.