Table of Contents
- Criticism of Governor Sanwo-Olu
- NPA's Efforts to Expand Port Activities
- Congestion Issues in Lagos Ports
- LOME's Response
- Benefits of Decentralisation
The League of Maritime Editors (LOME) has expressed its discontent with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over comments attributed to him concerning the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) initiatives to enhance operations at ports in the South-East and South-South regions.
The NPA has been advocating for increased activity at the Warri Port in Delta State, Onne Port in Rivers State, and the Calabar Port in Cross River State as part of its strategy to alleviate congestion at the heavily loaded Lagos ports, specifically Apapa and Tin Can Island.
Years of congestion at the Lagos ports have led to the implementation of the electronic call-up system to regulate traffic.
However, in a statement co-signed by LOME President Mrs. Remi Itie and Secretary General Mr. Felix Kumuyi, the organization criticized the governor’s alleged resistance to the development of other regional ports.
The editors characterized Sanwo-Olu’s perspective as an attempt to maintain Lagos’ supremacy at the expense of national economic advancement.
They contended that the governor’s position represents an unwarranted interference in the operational responsibilities of the NPA and poses a risk to the development of ports outside Lagos.
Part of the statement read: “The League of Maritime Editors (LOME) is profoundly concerned by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s remarks. The idea that Lagos should remain Nigeria’s exclusive commercial gateway needs to be challenged and reassessed.
“Nigeria is a federation, not a private domain. The insistence that port operations must stay concentrated in Lagos is both antiquated and detrimental.
“Years of overdependence on Apapa and Tin Can ports have resulted in severe traffic congestion, corruption, inefficiency, and the failure of traffic management systems.
“These issues are not the fault of the NPA but rather indicative of Lagos’ failure to adequately manage its infrastructure and regulatory environment.
“To resist the expansion of port activities to Warri, Onne, or Calabar is to jeopardize the Nigerian economy due to Lagos’ structural limitations. Equity and economic balance necessitate port decentralization.”
LOME asserted that decentralizing port operations would not only foster regional development but also bolster the overall maritime sector of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the concerns raised by LOME regarding Governor Sanwo-Olu's comments?
LOME criticized Governor Sanwo-Olu for allegedly opposing the development of regional ports, viewing his stance as an attempt to maintain Lagos' dominance at the expense of national economic growth.
What is the NPA's strategy to address port congestion?
The NPA is promoting increased activity at Warri Port, Onne Port, and Calabar Port as part of its strategy to reduce congestion at Lagos ports, specifically Apapa and Tin Can Island.
What are the potential benefits of decentralizing port operations?
Decentralizing port operations could promote regional development and strengthen Nigeria's overall maritime sector, ensuring a more balanced economic growth across the country.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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