Dare Babalola
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed an immediate investigation into allegations that local barge operators are being sidelined in Nigeria’s port operations.
The directive, conveyed in a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, mandates the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to examine claims of unfair practices within the maritime logistics space.
The move follows concerns raised by representatives of indigenous barge operators, who accused certain foreign-linked interests of attempting to dominate the sector at their expense.
According to the operators, “there is a coordinated and deliberate attempt by certain foreign interests to edge them out of business,” warning that such actions could destabilise the industry if not urgently addressed.
They also pointed to what they described as structural disadvantages affecting their operations.
“Policies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment allegedly being accorded to some foreign-linked entities by certain terminal operators are creating an uneven playing field,” the group said, adding that the trend is gradually shrinking their market share.
Reacting to the development, Oyetola emphasised the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure fairness and protect indigenous participation in the sector.
He tasked the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, in its capacity as port economic regulator, to “carry out a thorough and impartial investigation into the claims.”
The minister warned that any practice capable of distorting competition or undermining local businesses would not be condoned.
“Any form of anti-competitive behaviour or policy inconsistency that disadvantages Nigerian businesses would not be tolerated,” he said.
Oyetola further underscored the need for continuous dialogue among stakeholders, describing it as essential for addressing emerging challenges and improving policy direction.
He noted that such engagements play a critical role in “identifying sectoral challenges and shaping responsive policy interventions.”
Reiterating the administration’s broader vision, the minister said efforts are ongoing to reposition the marine and blue economy as a key contributor to national development.
According to him, the government remains committed to “strengthening the marine and blue economy sector as a driver of national growth, job creation, and sustainable development.”
