LAGOS – The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, recently made a significant move aimed at revolutionising Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure.
This, he did, through the performing of the ground-breaking ceremony of the Gateway Inland Dry Port (IDP), in Ewekoro Local Government of Ogun State.
The event took place on Friday, October 11, 2024, and signaled a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey to boosting its supply chain and reducing congestion at its coastal ports.
This was even as the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, reeled out some of the steps his administration had so far taken to revolutionise the transportation sector in the state.
He thanked the minister for giving his backing to the Inland Dry Port project.
The Minister in an address, highlighted the transformative potential of the Inland Dry Port, emphasising its role in reshaping the nation’s economic landscape.
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He said: “This project is not merely about building infrastructure but about laying the foundation for a key logistics hub that will facilitate the movement of goods across Nigeria.”
The project is expected to generate over 5,000 direct jobs and 15,000 indirect jobs, providing a significant boost to local businesses and encouraging foreign investment.
Oyetola, further emphasised that the initiative is closely aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to stimulate economic development across Nigeria.
The minister underscored how the inland port will reduce the burden on congested seaports, such as Apapa and Tin Can Island, by offering faster and more efficient alternatives for transporting goods across the country.
As part of this bold strategy, Oyetola issued a direct mandate to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, stressing the need to develop the Inland Dry Port as a state-of-the-art facility.
“I am issuing a clear directive to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to ensure that the Inland Dry Port is developed as a state-of-the-art facility, integrating advanced technology, leveraging ICT for seamless operations, and developing a robust infrastructure that supports modern port processes,” he declared.
The minister , also outlined plans to integrate modern digital systems to track cargo, enhance operational efficiency, and promote transparency.
Furthermore, the minister said the port should be designed as a model for future infrastructure projects in Nigeria, saying it must adopt environmentally sustainable practices, including green energy solutions and advanced waste management systems.
