Peter Obi has criticised the Federal Government’s decision to focus N1.5 trillion on modernising Lagos ports, arguing that Nigeria’s blue economy cannot thrive without decentralising port development.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has faulted the Federal Government’s approval of ₦1.5 trillion for the modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, both in Lagos.
In a statement shared on his X handle, Obi said the move reflects Nigeria’s “longstanding concentration of port development in Lagos,” warning that such centralisation limits economic potential in other regions.
“Nigeria’s infrastructure investment remains excessively concentrated in Lagos, often at the expense of other strategic ports such as Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne,” he said.
He argued that decentralising port operations would decongest Lagos, lower shipping costs, attract investment, and stimulate regional economies.
Obi cited countries like Vietnam, South Africa, and Morocco as examples of nations benefiting from balanced port distribution.
“A truly national blue economy must carry every region along,” he said, urging reforms to ensure equity, transparency, and nationwide economic inclusion in maritime infrastructure.