By Tunde Ojudun
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to investigate claims that local barge operators are being deliberately sidelined at the nation’s seaports.
According to a statement signed by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister, the directive was issued during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, held in Lagos on Thursday.
At the engagement, barge operators alleged that certain foreign interests, aided by preferential treatment from some terminal operators, are undermining indigenous businesses. They warned that unchecked practices could erode local capacity, distort competition, and threaten the survival of Nigerian operators.
Responding, Dr. Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting local investments and ensuring a level playing field in the maritime industry. He tasked the NSC, as the port economic regulator, with conducting a thorough and impartial probe into the allegations.
The Minister stressed that anti-competitive practices or policy inconsistencies disadvantaging Nigerian businesses would not be tolerated. He also underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in identifying challenges and shaping responsive policies, noting that the government remains focused on strengthening the marine and blue economy as a driver of growth, jobs, and sustainable development.