FG Tackles Underutilization of Ports to Boost National Economy

The Federal Government is taking decisive steps to support the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in tackling the issue.

This initiative is aimed at boosting the national economy and unlocking the untapped potentials of ports like Onne, which houses a significant portion of Nigeria’s maritime resources.

During the commissioning of a 4.8km road infrastructure and mooring boats at Onne Port in Rivers State, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized the importance of giving the NPA the necessary backing to address factors responsible for the underutilization of its national assets.

The Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to deepening the efficiencies and full capacity utilization of strategic advantages of Onne and other Port Complexes in the eastern axis, which constitutes one of the tools for actualizing its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

NPA Managing Director Muhammed Bello-Koko acknowledged that the completion of the Phase 4b infrastructure project, particularly the significant portion of the untapped potentials of the Onne Port Complex, will pave the way for new business opportunities and increased revenue for the national economy.

The completion of Road “D,” the major arterial link to the new Berths 9, 10, 11 & 12 at Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) and the vast expanse of reclaimed land already leased for port development, is a crucial step in this direction.

The Federal Government’s commitment to investing over One (1) Billion USD in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Nigeria’s Ports, including Onne, is a testament to its determination to tap into the immense potential of the maritime sector to boost the national economy.