September 2, 2025
With a view to generating employment and support economic growth in the niger delta region, the Nigerian Ports Authority said it plans to revive Delta Ports as part of a broader strategy to boost Nigeria’s economy and decongest the Lagos ports.
Chairman of the NPA Board, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, who announced this during a four-day working tour of the Delta Ports, said President Bola Tinubu is committed to revitalizing Nigeria’s port infrastructure.
Adeyeye and his delegation during the tour met with traditional rulers, port stakeholders, and community leaders, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Orodje of Okpe, and the Olu of Warri.
The monarchs expressed support for the NPA’s efforts, emphasizing the historical and economic importance of the ports in the region.
READ MORE; Over 5,000 Cargoes Trapped At Seaports Amid Heavy Demurrage Losses Due To Network Glitches
The Orodje of Okpe noted that the first port in Nigeria was built in the Delta as far back as 1472 by Portuguese explorers, calling for the dredging of the Escravos Bar and River Niger to allow bigger vessels access.
The Delta Ports have been facing operational challenges, including collapsed breakwaters, poor dredging, lack of pilotage services, and employment concerns.
The NPA plans to establish a Delta Channeling Management Company to address these issues and would be responsible for dredging and keeping waterways navigable year-round.
This company will also be saddled with resolving the recurring problem of shallow draught and siltation obstructing larger vessels from berthing.
READ MORE; Manufacturers Decry The Return Of FOB Levy.
Adeyeye stated that, “It doesn’t make sense for importers servicing the North Central and East to keep using Lagos when Delta Ports are here and assured that the NPA Board is committed to delivering on its mandate.
Meanwhile, stakeholders have called for the harmonization of tariffs across Nigeria’s ports and the redirection of inland-bound cargo from Lagos to Delta Ports to reduce logistics costs and congestion.
The revival of Delta Ports is expected to attract business from landlocked neighbors like Chad and the Niger Republic, promoting economic growth and job creation.
