Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, alongside former Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Bode George, and other industry leaders, have called on the Federal Government to urgently accelerate the development of deep sea ports and implement critical reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Jonathan made the call at the inaugural International Deep Sea Investment Forum (IDSIF) held in Lagos, where stakeholders gathered to assess the country’s port development challenges and explore investment opportunities.
Speaking at the event, Jonathan warned that Nigeria risks falling behind in global maritime trade if it fails to adapt to modern shipping trends, noting that the collapse of past national carriers like the Nigerian Shipping Line offers key lessons.
He emphasized the need for Nigeria to embrace innovation, urging that future engagements should produce “bankable projects” and involve key stakeholders such as banks and coastal states to drive sustainable port development.
Chief Bode George echoed similar concerns, warning against the over-concentration of port infrastructure in Lagos. Drawing from his experience as a former NPA chief, he stressed the importance of diversifying port development across the country to safeguard national economic interests.
He also urged the Federal Government to sign the Nigerian Ports and Regulatory Authority (NPERA) Bill and ensure that port infrastructure investments are not restricted to one region.
Representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the Nigerian Ports Authority outlined the government’s commitment to a “green port” strategy focused on modernization, automation, and improved cargo movement through better hinterland connectivity.
The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to position Nigeria within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which presents a multi-trillion-dollar trade opportunity.
However, former NPA Managing Director Bello Gwandu cautioned against over-investment in deep sea ports without adequate cargo demand and connectivity, arguing that Nigeria should prioritize well-linked international ports.
Convener of the forum, Asu Beks, stressed the urgency of port reforms and called on the Federal Government to sign the NPERA Bill, noting that efficient port systems are critical to preventing cargo diversion to neighboring countries.
The forum underscored growing concerns over Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness, with stakeholders agreeing that decisive action is needed to modernize infrastructure, improve regulation, and unlock the sector’s full economic potential.