The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved four major maritime projects worth about ₦286 billion to modernise Nigeria’s port infrastructure, strengthen maritime safety, and accelerate the development of the nation’s blue economy.
Representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal announced the approvals after the FEC meeting.
The approved projects include the procurement of two marine pollution control vessels valued at approximately ₦59.05 billion.
The vessels are designed to tackle plastic pollution and other marine waste in Nigeria’s territorial waters, creeks, and inland waterways.
FEC also approved the acquisition of six pilot cutter boats at a cost of about ₦80.03 billion.
The boats will facilitate the transportation of marine pilots and enhance vessel navigation within the nation’s port channels.
In addition, the Council approved the purchase of two firefighting boats worth approximately ₦34.06 billion to improve emergency response capabilities for fires involving ships, oil terminals, and waterfront facilities.
Also approved is the capital and maintenance dredging of the Escravos Channel at a cost of ₦112.85 billion. The project will be executed through a joint venture involving the Nigerian Ports Authority and private sector partners to improve channel navigability and sustain critical maritime infrastructure.
According to the minister, the projects are expected to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen environmental protection, improve maritime safety, and support the Federal Government’s drive to unlock the economic potential of the blue economy.
