The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government not to focus on port development in Lagos but extend such gesture to other strategic ports.
In a post on his verified X handle on Friday, Obi said
Nigeria’s infrastructure investment remains excessively concentrated in Lagos,
often at the expense of other strategic ports such as Warri, Port Harcourt,
Calabar, and Onne.
He added that if fully developed, the ports could enhance
productivity, drive trade, create jobs, and open new economic corridors that
would lift millions out of poverty across the federation.
“I have noted the Federal Government’s recent approval of $1
billion (N1.5 trillion) for the modernisation of the Apapa and TinCan Island
Ports in Lagos.
“While any effort to improve efficiency and embrace
technology in our maritime sector is commendable, such an initiative must be
guided by accountability, transparency, and equity for all Nigerians. However,
this development once again exposes a longstanding concentration of our port
development only in Lagos.
“As one who understands the critical link between
infrastructure, trade, and national growth, I believe that a truly national
blue economy must carry every region along. Beyond physical infrastructure,
reform must also address corruption, reduce bureaucracy, and embrace technology
to create a seamless, paperless port system that enhances turnaround time and
global competitiveness.
“If prudently managed, the Lagos modernisation project could
become a model for broader maritime transformation — a reference point from
which similar development radiates across the nation.
“Now more than ever, Nigeria must rebuild with fairness,
guided by equity, integrity, and a clear vision to transform our nation from
one of consumption to one of production and shared prosperity,” he wrote.
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