FG Launches Modernization Drive for Apapa and Tincan Ports
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has revealed that the ministry, working alongside the Nigerian Ports Authority, has initiated a port modernization program. This initiative will commence with Apapa and TinCan Island ports serving as pilot projects.
Oyetola disclosed this information in Lagos on Wednesday at the 3rd Maritime Transportation Industry Breakfast event organized by the Nigerian Maritime Law Association.
The theme of the event was ' Opportunities for rapid development and other issues emerging'.
At the event, Minister Mercy Ilori was represented by the Director of Maritime Services from the ministry who further stated that this process aims to rebuild deteriorating port facilities to enhance quicker turnarounds for vessels and cargoes.
“The ministry has begun a port modernisation program with Apapa and Tincan Island Ports as pilot projects to ensure the reconstruction of existing and dilapidated port infrastructure for improved vessel and cargo turnaround time,” Oyetola said.
The minister admitted that the sector still encountered difficulties such as inadequate infrastructure, security worries, and environmental problems.
He emphasized that tackling these issues necessitates a multi-pronged strategy to establish Nigeria as a prominent maritime center in Africa.
Oyetola emphasized that Nigeria's maritime industry presents significant opportunities, urging everyone to join hands in exploiting these potentials.
He stated that the ministry is progressing towards combining road, rail, and inland waterway connections with the ports.
The previous governor of Osun State highlighted that integrating this system would boost the effectiveness and competitiveness of maritime transportation.
As per his statement, one more step taken by the ministry to boost the progress of this industry involves creating the Port Community System, which is a digital hub designed to streamline and computerize procedures for all parties involved in the field.
He mentioned that the electronic platform would cut down processing time, guarantee smooth collaboration between all parties involved, and improve the convenience of conducting business at the ports.
Oyetola stated that the ministry is carrying out the Turtle Excluder Devices certification process to comply with international conservation initiatives and rules.
He mentioned that this would enable fishermen to showcase their dedication to sustainable practices.
Oyetola emphasized that this program will create opportunities in markets focused on environmentally friendly goods, guaranteeing improved pricing and higher demand for their catches.
"The ministry has taken steps to reinforce regulatory structures, improve the capabilities of local fishermen, and promote private sector involvement in advanced aquaculture methods to guarantee the sustained growth and stability of the industry," he stated.
Previously, Mrs. Funke Agbor, who serves as the President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association, stated that her organization remains dedicated to backing the legal, systemic, and regulatory foundations necessary for fostering a robust maritime sector.
Agbor stated that the association will keep backing the sector via lobbying efforts, skill enhancement, and interaction with stakeholders.
"We will keep contributing to the sustainable growth of our marine and ocean economic sector," she stated.
She stated that maritime transport lies at the core of global commerce and economic interconnection, owing to Nigeria's extensive coastlines, advantageous geographical position, and increasing focus on the blue economy.
Agbor highlighted the presence of unexploited growth opportunities and emphasized that realizing this potential necessitates well-designed policy measures, robust regulatory supervision, active involvement from the private sector, and ongoing collaboration among stakeholders.
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