The Federal Government has approved certification and compliance processes for five proposed deep seaport projects across Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s maritime sector and reduce the diversion of Nigerian-bound cargo to neighbouring African ports.
The approved deep seaport projects include the Badagry Deep Seaport in Lagos State, Olokola Deep Seaport in Ondo State, Ibom Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom State, Bakassi Deep Seaport in Cross River State, and Bonny Deep Seaport in Rivers State.
According to reports, the initiative is aimed at repositioning Nigeria as a major trade and logistics hub in West and Central Africa while addressing longstanding challenges affecting cargo operations at existing ports.
Government authorities disclosed that a significant percentage of cargo destined for Nigeria is currently being routed through foreign ports due to congestion, operational delays, and infrastructure limitations within the country’s port system.
Stakeholders in the maritime and business sectors have repeatedly expressed concerns over overcrowding at major seaports, especially in Lagos, where delays in cargo clearance and high logistics costs continue to affect businesses and import activities.
The approval of certification and compliance procedures is expected to accelerate preparations for the development of the proposed ports in line with international maritime standards and regulatory requirements.
Industry analysts believe the new deep seaports could improve cargo handling efficiency, reduce pressure on existing facilities, attract foreign investments, and create employment opportunities in host communities and surrounding states.
The Federal Government also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in delivering the projects, while assuring that environmental, technical, and regulatory guidelines would be strictly followed during implementation.
Economic experts say successful completion of the projects could strengthen Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, improve regional trade competitiveness, and enhance the nation’s capacity to handle increasing cargo traffic within the African market.