By Peter Adedoyin
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola on Friday described the Gateway Inland Dry Port as a game-changer for Nigeria's economic and industrial landscape.
Oyetola, who said this at the official ground- breaking ceremony of the Gateway Inland Dry Port (IDP) located at Shoderu Kajola in Ewekoro local government area of Ogun State, said the project marks a crucial step in the nation’s journey toward strengthening the backbone of its logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
While saying that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he is committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters innovation, economic growth, and infrastructural development, the Minister noted that the project will attract investments that will spur regional development, benefiting Ogun State and beyond.
He said, "as we launch this initiative, we acknowledge the vast economic potential of this Inland Dry Port. This project is not merely about building infrastructure, but about laying the foundation for a key logistics hub that will facilitate the movement of goods across Nigeria, creating over 5,000 direct jobs, 15,000 indirect jobs and stimulating local businesses.
"The development of inland dry ports, like this one, is a critical component of our broader strategy to position Nigeria as a leading player in the Blue Economy. As we continue to diversify our economy, it is essential to create infrastructure that serves as key nodes in our supply chain, reducing our reliance on traditional seaports".
"This Inland Dry Port will enhance the efficiency of our logistics network, contributing to the decongestion of Apapa and Tin Can Ports, and improving Nigeria’s trade competitiveness on the global stage".
"Inland Dry Ports provide faster and more efficient alternatives for moving goods, ultimately benefiting our economy and reducing the burden on our coastal seaports".
"To ensure the success of this project and to avoid repeating the congestion challenges we face in Lagos, I am issuing a clear directive to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, to ensure that the Inland Dry Port is developed as a state-of-the-art facility integrating advanced technology, leveraging ICT for seamless operations, and developing a robust infrastructure that supports modern port processes".
Oyetola reiterated that the Inland Dry Port, will be a model for other inland dry ports in Nigeria, built on international standards and capable of handling the demands of modern trade, is non-negotiable.
"We must ensure that this port is equipped with the latest digital systems for tracking, clearance, and cargo movement, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and global competitiveness".
"It is imperative that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council works closely with the Ogun State government, and the concessionaire to build a maritime ecosystem that is not only competitive but also a leader in innovation and technological advancement".
"Sustainability must be at the core of all our infrastructure projects. This Inland Dry Port is expected to significantly contribute to achieving that goal by enhancing the efficiency of our logistics network, reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with road transportation, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices in line with global standards".
"This Inland Dry Port must adopt eco-friendly practices, including green energy solutions, waste management, and the conservation of the surrounding environment. We must build with the future in mind, ensuring that projects respect the planet we all share".
"Moreover, the development of inland dry ports across the country is part of a larger plan to improve connectivity between our inland states and coastal areas, ensuring that every region benefits from the gains of trade and industrialisation".
"In this regard, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is actively working on policies to facilitate seamless port operations, including the automation of processes and the modernisation of infrastructure".
"The ministry will, therefore, continue to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Works to prioritise road construction and upgrades, ensuring seamless connectivity to major economic centres".
"We will also engage the Federal Ministry of Transportation so as to ensure the development of rail connectivity to link the Inland Dry Port with key industrial hubs, including the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway".
"I urge all stakeholders to invest in logistics technology, infrastructure development, and supply chain management. We welcome collaboration through Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) models, equity partnerships, and direct funding for specialised equipment. Funding options like concessional financing, joint ventures, and infrastructure bonds can streamline your investments.
Engaging in these opportunities will yield significant economic returns and transform Nigeria’s logistics landscape".
"Let us also remember that the benefits of this dry port extend beyond just Ogun State; it is a project of national importance. The Inland Dry Port will reshape how we handle logistics and trade both within and outside Nigeria. With this facility, we are one step closer to positioning our nation as a continental leader in trade and logistics".
"I am confident that the Inland Dry Port Project will serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, reduce our dependency on road-based logistics, and create a more resilient and sustainable supply chain for our nation".
"This dry port will play a pivotal role in supporting Nigerian exporters, particularly in agriculture, including the export of cocoa, cashew, and other key commodities. It will also provide specialised storage facilities, including temperature-controlled units for perishables, helping our exporters meet international standards, thus boosting foreign exchange earnings and driving economic growth".
"The success of this project hinges on the strong collaboration between the Federal Government, Ogun State Government, and other stakeholders".
"This project is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships, a model that the Federal Government fully supports and is committed to replicating for other critical infrastructure projects across the country".
In his address, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun said the project, when completed, will not just reduce congestion at
both Lagos Tin Can and Apapa ports, but will make both ports
more efficient .
He added that it will reduce the vehicular trailer traffic on our roads, thus reducing the wear and tear and
early maintenance on roads leading in and out of Lagos .
Governor Abiodun said, "with the Gateway Inland Dry Port, we are solidifying our position as the foremost logistics and industrial hub in the country, bringing unparalleled advantages to businesses operating here.
"This project is a testament to our shared vision of prosperity
and industrialization, and it will undoubtedly transform Ogun
State into a leading logistics and commercial center, both in
Nigeria and across West Africa".
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