The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has assured Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, that the federal government will expedite the development of the Bakassi Deep Seaport, minimizing bureaucratic delays in a strategic move to advance Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.
This was disclosed by the Minister during a recent meeting between the two leaders at the minister’s office in Abuja, on Wednesday as shared by the minister’s aide, Ismail Omipidan, on X.
The project, which features a natural seaport depth of between 17 to 21 meters, is expected to significantly reduce the cost of capital dredging, enhancing its economic viability.
Oyetola emphasized that the seaport’s development is crucial for positioning Nigeria as a central hub for trans-shipment across Africa.
“Because of the low drought of our major seaports, most large containers that are meant for Nigeria are diverted to other African countries.
“So, I see the project as a welcome development and I assure you that we would drive the project as fast as you want, and I assure you, bureaucracy will not have a way here,” the minister added.
In his remark, Otu said he was at the ministry to seek the collaboration of the minister to see to the fruition of the Bakassi Deep seaport Project, under a public-private partnership model.
He highlighted the project as a key component of Cross River State’s integrated infrastructure strategy, aimed at boosting trade, stimulating the local economy, and enhancing Nigeria’s overall economic landscape.
The meeting was also attended by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi.
The Bakassi Deep Seaport is poised to be a major catalyst for economic growth, positioning Nigeria to better compete in the African maritime sector.
