A research body has warned that the underdevelopment of ports in Nigeria’s South-east is raising costs for traders and could undermine the region’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
The Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC), in its weekly bulletin signed by Head of Research Dr Eugene Nweke, said over 30% of imports arriving through western ports are later re-transported to the East, inflating business expenses.
The group identified shallow drafts, poor access roads, dilapidated berths, inadequate equipment and insecurity as factors discouraging vessel operators from using eastern ports. It said these challenges have created logistical bottlenecks and investment losses for businesses.
SEREC called for coordinated investment in road and rail links, inland waterways, and port security, while urging South-east governors to work together on upgrades.
It also noted recent investments by the Nigerian Ports Authority, including port concessions, infrastructure expansion and enhanced maritime security.
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