FG approves modernisation of Onne, Rivers, Delta, Calabar Ports

The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure, improve trade efficiency, and position the country as a leading logistics hub in Africa.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, announced the approval in a statement on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Oyetola described the approval as another milestone in the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Oyetola said the latest approval follows the earlier approval for the rehabilitation and upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos State, noting that it was part of the government’s commitment to developing a balanced and globally competitive national port system.

He said expanding the modernisation programme beyond Lagos would reduce the concentration of cargo traffic in the commercial capital while creating additional efficient gateways for international trade.

The minister noted that improved infrastructure at the Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports would enhance cargo handling capacity, reduce vessel turnaround time, improve regional connectivity and lower the cost of moving goods across the country.

Oyetola added that the ports occupy strategic positions in Nigeria’s trade and industrial development and must be equipped to meet the demands of a growing economy.

Oyetola said the port upgrades form part of a broader maritime infrastructure expansion that also includes federal government approvals for the development of the Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo, and Bonny Deep Seaports.

He stated: “Our approach is comprehensive. We are modernising existing ports while facilitating the development of new deep seaports. Together, these investments will expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, create stronger economic corridors and position our country as a major maritime and logistics hub in Africa.

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“Our vision is an integrated maritime and logistics system in which ports, roads, rail, inland waterways and other transport infrastructure work together to enable the seamless movement of cargo.

“We want Nigerian businesses to spend less time and resources moving their goods, while creating an environment that encourages investment and supports job creation.”

Oyetola said the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy would continue collaborating with state governments, terminal operators, investors, shipping companies, and other stakeholders to ensure the projects deliver lasting benefits to Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.

He added that with the right infrastructure, policies and investment climate, Nigeria has the potential to become one of Africa’s leading maritime and logistics hubs.