The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the Federal Government to extend port development to other parts of the country.
Speaking on Friday via a post on his 𝕏 handle, he condemned the excessive investment in infrastructure in Lagos.
He lamented that such actions are carried out at the expense of other strategic ports such as Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne.
The former governor noted that if ports in other states were fully developed, it would enhance productivity, drive trade, create jobs, and open new economic corridors that would lift millions out of poverty across the federation.
He wrote, “I have noted the Federal Government’s recent approval of $1 billion (₦1.5 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.”
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