Minister Orders Probe As Foreign Operators Takeover Barge Operation

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations that foreign-linked operators are taking over barge operations at Nigeria’s seaports, raising concerns over the survival of indigenous players.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr Bolaji Akinola, the minister issued the directive during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement and Sectoral Performance Review held in Lagos, where industry operators voiced strong objections to what they described as a growing dominance of foreign interests in the barge logistics segment.

According to Akinola, barge operators at the meeting alleged that a pattern is emerging in which foreign-affiliated companies are gradually displacing local firms through what they termed unfair advantages and strategic positioning within port operations.

They warned that if the trend continues unchecked, it could lead to the marginalisation of Nigerian businesses and a loss of local capacity in the maritime sector.

According to the stakeholders, operational challenges, regulatory inconsistencies, and what they perceive as preferential treatment by some terminal operators have created an uneven competitive environment.

They argued that these factors are steadily shrinking the market share of indigenous operators and threatening investments made over the years.

In response, Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s stance on protecting local enterprises and promoting fair competition across the maritime value chain.

He tasked the Nigerian Shippers’ Council with conducting a comprehensive and unbiased probe into the allegations.

The Minister stressed that the outcome of the investigation would guide necessary regulatory and policy actions to restore balance and safeguard indigenous participation in the sector.

He further noted that the government remains committed to strengthening the marine and blue economy as a key pillar for economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable growth, adding that no operator would be allowed to undermine national interest through anti-competitive practices.

Oyetola also highlighted the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement, describing it as a vital tool for identifying emerging issues and ensuring that government policies remain responsive to industry realities.