The Federal Government has given the green light for the development of the Bakassi Deep Seaport, a strategic project expected to strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy and maritime sector.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, presented the project’s certificate of compliance to the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, signaling a major milestone in the nation’s efforts to position itself as a competitive maritime and logistics hub.
In a statement signed by Oyetola’s Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, the minister described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a national asset aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He emphasized that the project has the potential to boost livelihoods, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities not only for Cross River State but for the country as a whole.
Oyetola assured that the Federal Government would continue to support Cross River State to ensure the successful delivery of the project, while commending Governor Otu for his commitment and the rapid pace of work on the seaport.
“This project has the capacity to significantly transform the local and national economy, and we remain committed to sustained collaboration with state authorities and private sector partners to bring it to fruition,” the minister said.
Receiving the certificate, Governor Otu described the development as historic and a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to unlock the full potential of the marine and blue economy.
He highlighted Cross River State’s strategic location along the coast, comparing its potential to maritime hubs in countries such as Brazil.
“This certificate is a significant boost, bringing balance and momentum to our pursuit. With the professionalism and commitment of the ministry and private sector stakeholders, we are firmly on track with the deep seaport project,” Otu stated.
The governor also lauded President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and appointing Oyetola as minister, describing both decisions as timely and critical to the growth of the sector.
The Bakassi Deep Seaport project forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to expand Nigeria’s maritime capacity, decongest existing ports in Lagos, and diversify the national economy through marine and blue economy development. Strategically positioned along Nigeria’s eastern corridor and close to international shipping routes, the seaport is expected to serve as a major cargo and logistics hub, facilitating trade to landlocked regions in the North-Central and North-East.
The initiative gained momentum following the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, which was established to unlock value from shipping, ports, fisheries, and coastal resources, attract private investment, and boost trade, employment, and regional integration.
