The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has announced the commencement of plans to revive the Oguta River Port in Imo State, positioning it as a strategic driver of economic growth in the South East region.
A statement signed by the Assistant General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mr Suleiman Makama disclosed that the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, made this known during a meeting with the Technical Team of the Orashi Special Energy Free Trade Zone, led by its Managing Director, Dr. Chioma Nwachukwu, at the NIWA Liaison Office in Abuja.
According to Oyebamiji, the port is critical to advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine Economy. He emphasized NIWA’s openness to public-private partnerships as a means of ensuring the swift revitalisation of the facility.
“The Oguta River Port holds immense potential for the development of the South East and we are committed to creating opportunities for investment and industrial growth through strategic collaborations,” Oyebamiji said.
On her part, Dr. Nwachukwu reaffirmed the readiness of the Orashi Special Energy Free Trade Zone to partner with NIWA in harnessing the port’s potential. She noted that the revival of the facility would not only attract investments but also stimulate industrial activities and create employment opportunities in the region.
The renewed focus on the Oguta River Port is expected to open up new economic frontiers for the South East, aligning with the federal government’s push to diversify transportation infrastructure and enhance trade competitiveness.
