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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to investigate allegations of systemic attempts to sideline local barge operators at Nigeria’s seaports.
The directive was issued during the ministry’s 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat held in Lagos.
Barge operators at the forum alleged a coordinated push by foreign-linked interests to edge them out of the market, warning that such practices could erode indigenous capacity and distort competition within the maritime logistics chain.
They pointed to policy inconsistencies, operational bottlenecks, and what they described as preferential treatment by some terminal operators as key factors creating an uneven business environment. According to them, these pressures are steadily shrinking their market share and threatening the survival of local firms.
Responding, Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding local investments and maintaining a level playing field. He tasked the NSC, as port economic regulator, with conducting a thorough and impartial probe into the allegations.
The Minister stressed that anti-competitive practices or policies that disadvantage Nigerian operators will not be tolerated, underscoring the government’s resolve to enforce fairness across the sector.
He further highlighted the value of sustained stakeholder engagement in identifying industry challenges and shaping responsive policy measures, noting that the administration remains focused on positioning the marine and blue economy as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
This information was issued via a press statement on Monday, signed by Mr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister.
