The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has ordered the Nigerian Ports Authority and terminal operators to fast-track the removal of hundreds of containers carrying electricity equipment that have remained at Nigerian ports since 2007.
The directive followed an order by President Bola Tinubu to ensure the long-abandoned cargoes are cleared, according to a statement released on Tuesday by Oyetola Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola.
“Mr. President’s directive is clear, and our responsibility is to ensure its effective implementation,” Oyetola was quoted as saying.
“NPA and terminal operators are to give this assignment the highest priority, work seamlessly with Customs and the Ministry of Power, and provide every necessary operational support to achieve the desired result.”
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The minister instructed the port authority and terminal operators to make the necessary logistical arrangements, including cargo positioning and handling, to facilitate the evacuation of the containers without further delays.
He stressed that achieving the presidential directive would require close cooperation between relevant government agencies and other stakeholders in the maritime sector.
Oyetola reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to enhancing port operations, shortening cargo dwell times and ensuring that the country’s maritime infrastructure contributes to key national development objectives.
He said Nigerian seaports should function as channels for economic expansion, industrial growth and infrastructure development rather than become storage points for goods whose release is vital to national progress.
The minister also urged stakeholders to maintain momentum in the clearance process, noting that its timely completion would reflect the government’s determination to remove bureaucratic obstacles and speed up the execution of essential infrastructure projects.