The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has assured Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, that the Bakassi Deep Seaport project will not be hindered by bureaucratic delays.
During a courtesy visit by Governor Otu to his office on Wednesday, Oyetola emphasized the strategic importance of the project, noting the seaport’s natural depth of 17 to 21 metres, which the Cross River State Government highlighted as a significant advantage in reducing capital dredging costs.
“Once the Deep Seaport is operational, it will position Nigeria as a transshipment hub within the African region,” Oyetola stated, even as he acknowledged that “due to the low draft of our major seaports, many large containers destined for Nigeria are currently diverted to other African countries. I view this project as a positive development and promise that we will expedite it without allowing bureaucracy to impede our progress.”
Speaking earlier, Governor Otu expressed his visit’s purpose as seeking the Minister’s collaboration to ensure the successful completion of the Bakassi Deep Seaport project through a public-private partnership. He described the project as integral to Cross River State’s strategic infrastructure plan aimed at boosting trade and stimulating economic growth in the region and across Nigeria.
Commending the Minister for establishing a strong foundation within the ministry, Senator Otu highlighted Oyetola’s private sector experience as a key factor in the expected success of the project.
