Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has announced plans to replicate the Lekki Deep Seaport model across the country’s maritime sector, describing it as a benchmark for growth and transformation.
Speaking at the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping Breakfast Meeting in Lagos, themed “Unlocking Opportunities: The Lekki Deep Seaport Playbook for Trade and Shipping in Nigeria,” Oyetola reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a modern, safe, and globally competitive maritime industry.
He noted that the Lekki Deep Seaport’s success built on public-private partnership and operational efficiency will serve as a blueprint for port reforms nationwide. Valued at $1.5 billion, the facility can handle 1.2 million TEUs and large vessels, while already creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
“The maritime industry is central to our economic aspirations—not just for trade, but for industrial growth, job creation, and regional integration,” Oyetola said. He stressed that achieving this vision requires sustained infrastructure investment, digital transformation, and strong private-sector collaboration.
Although currently operating at only 20% capacity, the Lekki port has already improved logistics with the completion of key access roads, enabling faster cargo movement and restoring investor confidence.
Oyetola outlined five pillars of the “Lekki playbook” to include strategic location, strong public private partnership, integrated transport links (road, rail, inland waterways), supportive government policies, and technology-driven operations.
He confirmed that modernization is already underway at Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, along with upgrades at the Eastern Ports of Onne, Calabar, and Rivers.
The federal government is also finalizing the Port Community System integrated with the National Single Window to promote a paperless and transparent digital environment.
In addition, Oyetola revealed that the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has been directed to begin immediate disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) to qualified Nigerian shipowners, an effort aimed at strengthening local capacity and developing a National Flag Carrier.
“The Lekki Deep Seaport proves what is possible when policy, vision, investment, and execution align. Our task now is to replicate, refine, and scale this model for the prosperity of Nigeria and the continent,” he concluded.
The event was attended by senior government officials, shipping companies, terminal operators, and private sector representatives.
