In a bid to address the deteriorating conditions of access roads leading to ports across Nigeria, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, engaged in discussions with the Minister of Works, Engineer David Umahi. The focus of the conversation revolved around the urgent need for a comprehensive rehabilitation program for these roads, deemed critical for the country’s port efficiency.

Oyetola highlighted the crucial role of these access roads in the smooth functioning of the ports and emphasized the pressing need for immediate repair and maintenance. He pointed out that the state of disrepair was causing significant challenges for importers and exporters, including increased transportation costs, extended transit times, and elevated risks of accidents. He stressed that collectively, these issues hindered national economic growth, discouraged foreign investment, and impeded the country’s international trade capabilities.

During his visit to the Works ministry, Oyetola presented a list of 15 roads requiring urgent attention, spanning crucial ports such as Lagos Port Complex, Tincan Island Port, Calabar New Port, Delta Port, and Onne Port. The identified roads included vital routes like a 1.6km dual-carriage road within the Lagos Port Complex, a 3km Tincan Island access road, a 15.3km Eleme Junction-Trailer Park Junction Dual Carriageway at Onne Port, and a 3.1km FLT-FOT Roundabout Single Carriageway, also located at Onne Port.

Expressing his appreciation for Oyetola’s visit and the outlined concerns, the Works Minister acknowledged the significance of addressing these issues promptly. He echoed Oyetola’s sentiments, recognizing that the rehabilitation of these access roads would substantially enhance port efficiency and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

In a show of immediate commitment, the Works Minister swiftly took action, requesting Oyetola to nominate a representative for a meeting scheduled the following day with a director from the Ministry of Works. The objective of this meeting is to strategize and devise effective means to swiftly execute the rehabilitation tasks outlined for the identified access roads.

This bilateral engagement signifies a concerted effort by both ministries to address a critical infrastructure issue, aiming to significantly improve the functioning of ports and bolster the nation’s economic prospects.