The Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, has called on the federal government to prioritise the rehabilitation, revival, and expansion of Nigeria’s eastern ports. Speaking during a visit from Dr Pius Akutah, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Afolabi stressed that eastern ports have been largely neglected despite their potential to ease pressure on Lagos ports.

He pointed out that modernising ports in Warri, Onne, and Calabar, along with proper dredging, would allow larger vessels to berth at these locations. This would help reduce congestion in Lagos and improve overall efficiency across the country’s maritime sector.

Afolabi urged the government to extend the kind of modernisation efforts seen in Lagos to the eastern ports. He noted that a more balanced approach would benefit the entire port system and boost trade.

In response, Dr Akutah commended SIFAX Group for its significant contributions to Nigeria’s maritime industry. He expressed readiness to work with the company to advance the sector and address the challenges facing the nation’s ports.