Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, recently inaugurated the Construction of the Gateway Inland Dry Port, representing a crucial advancement in improving Nigeria’s Logistics system. Situated in Kajola within the Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, the Dry Port is anticipated to raise the benchmark for inland dry ports nationwide. It will be constructed to meet international criteria and integrated with advanced digital technologies for monitoring, clearance, and cargo management. This facility aims to enhance efficiency, accountability, and global competitiveness within Nigeria’s logistics framework.
He emphasised that this initiative goes beyond mere Infrastructure enhancement; it’s focused on establishing a logistics centre to facilitate the transportation of goods throughout Nigeria. The Gateway Inland Dry Port aims to generate 5,000 direct employment opportunities and an additional 15,000 indirect jobs, delivering economic advantages to Ogun State and its surroundings. The port is anticipated to boost regional enterprises and draw considerable investment, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on enhancing innovation, promoting economic development, and enhancing infrastructure.
A quicker and more effective solution will be provided for merchandise.
In his address, Oyetola emphasised the urgent requirement for inland dry ports to alleviate the Overcrowding at Nigeria’s coastal seaports, notably in Lagos. He shared insights from a recent trip to a logistics centre in Lagos, highlighting how companies struggle with prolonged transport durations and rising expenses from this congestion. Inland ports such as the Gateway Inland Dry Port present a quicker and more effective solution for transporting merchandise, which will ultimately enhance Nigeria’s Economy by alleviating the strain on conventional seaports.
Also, he highlighted that this is essential to Nigeria’s larger plan to become a major participant in the Blue Economy. It would improve the efficiency of Nigeria’s logistics system and help alleviate congestion at significant ports like Apapa and Tin Can, ultimately strengthening the nation’s position in global trade. To guarantee the project’s success, Oyetola directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to work alongside the Ogun State Government and the concessionaire in developing the advanced facility. He highlighted the importance of utilising modern technology, fostering innovation, and focusing on Sustainability to meet international benchmarks.
Strains on the overcrowded Lagos seaports will be reduced.
At the event, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, emphasised the significant developmental benefits the port could bring to the region. He noted that the well-placed dry port, located next to a railway, would allow manufacturers to transport raw materials conveniently, bypassing the overcrowded Lagos seaports. This will help decrease delays in shipping, alleviate roadway congestion, and minimize upkeep expenses for the roads around Lagos. Abiodun expressed that the port will enhance Ogun State’s position as a central logistics and industrial area in Nigeria.
The dry port aims to enhance logistics performance, lower Greenhouse gas emissions, and support Eco-friendly practices. He emphasised that this initiative represents not merely the establishment of a dry port but the dawn of a new phase of economic advancement, employment opportunities, and greater wealth for Ogun State and its neighbouring areas. It represents a collective aspiration for industrial growth, poised to turn Ogun into a prominent hub for logistics and commerce, not only within Nigeria but throughout West Africa.
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Gbenga Dairo, the Transportation Commissioner, emphasised the state government’s dedication to enhancing growth across Ogun State. Also, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro, commended President Bola Tinubu for his decision to establish the port in Ogun. He requested the refurbishment of vital routes, including the Sagamu interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro road, to ensure that the community fully reaps the advantages of the project. He further emphasised that the dry port embodies the President Renewed Hope initiative, fostering real advancements for the state.