Reps committee condemns poor work at Baro inland port

The House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalisation of Baro Inland Port has expressed concern over the substandard state of the facility.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to Niger State Governor Umaru Bago following an overnight inspection of the port, Rep. Idris Wase (APC-Plateau) criticized the project, saying it was “commissioned on paper” by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019 despite significant investment.

“What we saw is a project that was merely commissioned on paper.

“It is unfortunate what has happened in the past, but as leaders, we must take responsibility to change the narrative,” Wase said.

He described the port as a “gateway to Nigeria’s economy,” noting that its neglect reflects the broader national infrastructure deficit.

The lawmaker assured that the committee is committed to reviving the port and ensuring its completion, working alongside the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other stakeholders to address key challenges such as dredging and establishing navigable channels.

Committee Chairman Rep. Saidu Abdullahi (APC-Niger) also highlighted the poor state of roads leading to the port, calling it a major impediment to functionality.

He noted that a journey that should take 30 minutes now stretches to four hours due to failed road sections, leaving the multi-billion-naira facility largely idle despite its potential to boost trade and create jobs.

“We are committed to ensuring this port does not remain a white elephant project.

“All issues must be addressed, and government agencies responsible for roads, inland waterways, and transport must rise to the challenge,” Abdullahi said.

Mr. Bolawale Adetola, General Manager of Business Development at the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), expressed optimism that the port could soon be operational once critical challenges like dredging and access roads are resolved.

He added that the National Assembly’s involvement could help mobilize necessary funds through appropriations or private partnerships.

Governor Bago welcomed the committee’s visit, emphasizing the port’s strategic importance in reducing the burden on Nigeria’s road infrastructure.

He described Baro Inland Port as a national project, historically central to the Northern Africa Trade Corridor and strategically linked to the Lagos–Kano–Jibia rail line.

“Since assuming office, we have worked towards realizing the Baro Port project.

“This is not just a Niger project or a northern project—it is a Nigerian project,” he said, commending the committee for demonstrating renewed determination to reposition the nation’s infrastructure.