Port Harcourt: The Federal Government has assured stakeholders that it has not abandoned the Eastern Ports, saying ongoing rehabilitation and modernisation works are aimed at restoring the facilities to optimal operations and repositioning them as major gateways for maritime trade.
Kenechi Okaeze, Manager of the Rivers Port Complex, who represented the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, gave the assurance during an interactive session with members of the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) in Port Harcourt.
Responding to concerns that the Eastern Ports had been neglected, Okaeze said the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) was undertaking extensive rehabilitation across the region to improve infrastructure and operational efficiency.
It is not correct to say that management has abandoned the Eastern Ports. As we speak, some of the structures are being rehabilitated. Management has not ignored the Eastern Ports, she said.
Okaeze disclosed that six berths at the Rivers Port Complex have been reconstructed and strengthened to accommodate larger vessels and improve cargo handling. She also said the authority is deepening navigation channels to enable bigger ships to call at the ports, a move expected to boost cargo traffic and reduce dependence on transporting imports by road from ports in other parts of the country.
She noted the Federal Government recognises the strategic importance of the Eastern Ports because of their proximity to major markets, and is committed to ensuring the ports become fully functional.
We know the Eastern Ports have proximity to key markets, which is why the government is making consistent efforts to ensure the ports are rehabilitated and fully functional. This will allow vessels to come directly here and save the cost of transporting goods by road,” Okaeze said.
Reviving the ports, she added, would also enhance safety by reducing the risks associated with hauling large volumes of cargo over long distances on the nation’s highways.
Expressing optimism about the ongoing projects, Okaeze assured stakeholders that the rehabilitation efforts would soon restore the Eastern Ports to their rightful place in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
“I must assure you, don’t worry. Very soon, the Eastern Ports will start moving,” she said.
Tags: Adegboyega Oyetola, Eastern Ports, Fed Govt
