Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized the Federal Government's ₦1.5 trillion approval for modernizing Lagos ports, arguing it perpetuates over-centralization. He calls for decentralizing port development to other regions for balanced national growth. The move, he says, highlights inequities in Nigeria's maritime infrastructure.
Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, reacted to the Federal Executive Council's recent approval of ₦1.5 trillion ($1 billion) for upgrading Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos. In a statement shared on his X handle on October 24, 2025, titled “The Imperative of Diversifying Port Development in Nigeria,” Obi welcomed the modernization efforts but warned they reinforce a pattern of excessive concentration in Lagos, undermining economic inclusion for other coastal areas.
Obi noted that over 70 per cent of Nigeria’s port activities occur in Lagos, leading to chronic congestion, high demurrage costs, environmental degradation, and nationwide logistics delays that inflate prices. “While efforts to modernise and digitise the maritime sector are commendable, such initiatives must be guided by accountability, transparency, and equity for all Nigerians,” he wrote. He highlighted how this focus deprives ports like Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne of development opportunities.
Drawing global parallels, Obi pointed to countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco, where decentralized port systems drive economic growth. “No country seeking to maximise its blue economy concentrates all maritime activities in one city,” he stated. “Decentralisation reduces congestion, enhances logistics, and promotes balanced growth.”
He urged revitalizing these other ports to decongest Lagos, cut shipping costs, and boost regional economies, emphasizing a national blue economy where all regions participate in trade. Obi also called for tackling corruption, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and adopting technology for a competitive system. “If prudently managed, the Lagos port modernisation could serve as a model for nationwide maritime reform,” he added. “Now more than ever, Nigeria must rebuild with fairness, guided by equity, integrity, and a vision for shared prosperity.”
The approval aims to improve cargo handling efficiency and reduce turnaround times, but it has reignited debates on diversifying Nigeria's port infrastructure.