The Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrade of Onne, Rivers, Delta and Calabar ports as part of efforts to expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity and reduce the concentration of cargo traffic around Lagos.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the approval on Sunday, September 27, 2026, saying the move would help develop a more balanced and efficient national port system.
The latest approval comes after the Federal Government earlier approved the modernisation and upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
According to Oyetola, extending the modernisation programme to ports outside Lagos is intended to create additional efficient gateways for international trade and reduce the heavy concentration of cargo traffic in the Lagos axis.
He said improved infrastructure and operational efficiency at the four ports would enhance cargo-handling capacity, reduce vessel turnaround times, strengthen regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.
For businesses and consumers, a more efficient port network could have wider implications. If the upgrades translate into faster cargo clearance and better connections to roads and other transport networks, businesses in the South-East and South-South could have more options for receiving and distributing imported goods without relying as heavily on Lagos.
Improved port activity could also support jobs and businesses connected to transportation, warehousing, logistics, shipping and other services around the ports.
The Federal Government’s wider maritime plan also includes approvals for new deep seaports, including the Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny Deep Seaports, according to the minister.
However, the latest announcement is an approval for modernisation and upgrade, not evidence that the work has already been completed. The extent to which Nigerians eventually see shorter delays, lower logistics costs and faster movement of goods will depend on the implementation of the projects and how effectively the upgraded ports are connected to other parts of the country’s transport network.
The government says the broader objective is to build an integrated maritime and logistics system capable of supporting trade, investment and employment while strengthening Nigeria’s position as a regional maritime hub.
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