Expert cautions against proliferation of Deep-Seaports in Nigeria

ABIOLA SEUN |

A University Lecturer, Dr Frank Ojadi, has called for restraint in government quest for establishing deep seaports in Nigeria.

Recall that in the past few years, deep seaports have been springing up all around the country despite non-viability of some of them.

The deep seaports established are Lekki and Badagry deep seaport in Lagos; Ibom deep water port in Akwa Ibom State; Olokola deep water port in Ogun/Ondo States; Snake Island Service Port; Onne Port extension; Bonny deep water port Notel; and Bakassi deep water port.

But, Ojadi who disclosed this on Monday at a training program for journalists in Lagos said the Organised Private Sector (OPS) would make the Lekki port viable.

He said aside from Lekki deep-seaport, the other deep seaports may not be viable and advised that the government has to do proper planning in other to guarantee the viability of many deep seaports springing up around the country.

The University Don, citing a recent report by an international shipping consultant, Drewry, which predicted a gloomy investment prospects for the seaports, said there is need for government to control the setup.

“The government is currently making efforts to develop deep water ports in partnership with the private sector in: Lekki, Lagos State; Badagry deep seaport in Lagos State; Ibom deep water port in Akwa Ibom State; Olokola deep water port in Ogun/Ondo States; Snake Island Service Port; Onne Port extension; Bonny deep water port Notel; and Bakassi deep water port.

“The key question is: Do we really need all these deep seaports noting that neighbouring countries in West Africa are also planning new seaports, amid cargo limitations?” Ojadi queried.

He further stated that a deep seaport is essential because good nautical access is essential for maritime connectivity of ports.

He said: “Over the last decades, ships have rapidly become bigger and deeper. For example, the draft of the largest container ships at this moment is approximately 14.5 meters, which is deeper than what most ports can accommodate.

“Port depth thus becomes a competitive advantage for attracting the largest ships and a challenge for many ports that are estuary and have no direct deep sea access.”

Ojadi noted that deep seaports would create opportunities for transhipment operations, generate more employment, promote local shipping business and boost trade in the country.

According to him, Panamax vessels make a direct port and discharge, and the bulk of their cargoes are delivered at a particular port while importers will have to move them to other destinations through feeder vessels, thereby the need for transhipment.