ABUJA — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Bakassi Deep Seaport project, describing it as a transformative national asset capable of boosting trade, creating thousands of jobs and expanding economic opportunities across Nigeria.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, made this known in Abuja during the formal presentation of the Certificate of Compliance for the Bakassi Deep Seaport to the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu. The presentation took place when the governor led a delegation to the minister’s office, marking another major milestone in the realisation of the long-anticipated maritime project.
Dr. Oyetola said the deep seaport aligns squarely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of economic diversification, job creation and the expansion of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy. According to him, the port is strategically positioned to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade and logistics while unlocking new economic frontiers.
“This project has the capacity to significantly boost livelihoods, create thousands of jobs and expand economic opportunities not only for Cross River State, but for Nigeria as a whole,” the minister stated.
He explained that the Bakassi Deep Seaport would serve as a vital complement to existing ports across the country, helping to reduce congestion in major maritime corridors while improving efficiency in cargo handling and distribution. The minister added that the project would strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime hub in the sub-region.
Dr. Oyetola assured the Cross River State Government of the Federal Government’s full backing, stressing that sustained collaboration between the federal and state authorities, as well as private sector investors, would be crucial to the successful delivery and long-term viability of the project.
He commended Governor Otu for the speed, focus and political will demonstrated in driving the project forward, noting that such commitment is essential for attracting investor confidence and ensuring timely completion.
The presentation of the Certificate of Compliance followed the recent approval of the Bakassi Deep Seaport by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), a decision widely regarded as a major boost to Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure agenda and a strong signal to both local and international investors.
Receiving the certificate, Governor Bassey Otu described the occasion as historic and symbolic of a new chapter in Cross River State’s economic development. He said the approval and certification of the project marked a critical step in the state’s efforts to harness the vast opportunities within the marine and blue economy.
“This moment represents a key milestone in our journey. It brings balance, clarity and momentum to our pursuit of the Bakassi Deep Seaport project,” the governor said.
Governor Otu noted that Cross River State’s strategic coastal location places it in a unique position to play a leading role in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics development. He explained that the deep seaport would enhance trade connectivity, stimulate industrial growth and promote inclusive economic development across the state and beyond.
“With the professionalism, technical competence and commitment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, alongside the involvement of credible private sector partners, we are firmly on track to deliver this transformative project,” he added.
The governor also praised President Tinubu for the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a visionary step aimed at unlocking the country’s vast maritime potential. He further commended the appointment of Dr. Oyetola as minister, saying the leadership provided by the ministry has brought renewed focus and direction to the sector.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Mr. Jobson Ewalefoh, described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a potential game-changer for Nigeria’s maritime and logistics ecosystem.
According to Ewalefoh, the port would serve as a new maritime gateway for the North-Central and North-East regions, providing easier access to international trade routes while reducing transportation costs for businesses operating in those areas.
He added that beyond domestic benefits, the Bakassi Deep Seaport would strengthen Nigeria’s position as a major logistics and transshipment hub for West and Central Africa, with far-reaching implications for trade expansion, revenue generation and economic diversification.
“The strategic importance of this port cannot be overstated. It will enhance regional integration, improve supply chain efficiency and significantly boost Nigeria’s non-oil revenue profile,” Ewalefoh said.
With regulatory approvals secured and strong political backing in place, stakeholders expressed optimism that the Bakassi Deep Seaport will play a pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria’s maritime landscape, driving sustainable growth and delivering long-term economic benefits to millions of Nigerians.
