The Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the Federal Government to prioritize the revival of the Warri, Koko, Sapele and Burutu ports, describing them as critical assets for driving economic growth and positioning Delta as Nigeria’s maritime hub.
He made the call on Monday when he received the Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, and members of the NPA Board on a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.
The governor emphasized that revitalizing the ports would unlock vast economic opportunities, boost national revenue, and significantly reduce unemployment.
“Delta State is strategically blessed with four ports. If these ports are revived, they will create massive employment, stimulate trade, and strengthen the economy of Delta and Nigeria. It is often more impactful to modernize existing ports than to build new ones”, he said.
Oborevwori commended the NPA for its ongoing modernization efforts but appealed for urgent dredging of the Warri Channel and rehabilitation of Warri and Koko port facilities. He noted that these interventions should be treated as national priorities.
He also highlighted existing collaborations with the Federal Government to address key infrastructure needs, pointing to joint efforts already in progress.
“These collaborations are already yielding results. The Federal Government has awarded the Summit Junction–Bridge Head section of the Benin-Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company while the State Government has awarded a section of the Sapele–Warri Road project to CCECC at a cost of N35 billion. This is a clear demonstration of the positive relationship between the state and the centre”, he stated.
The governor assured prospective investors of a stable and secure environment, explaining that oil installations in the state were no longer under frequent attacks and that Delta was now safer for business operations.
To protect investors and businesses, Oborevwori said Delta State had passed a law prohibiting the collection of illegal levies and harassment of companies.
He, however, urged companies operating in the state to honour their Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with host communities by employing locals and building stronger partnerships.
The governor also spotlighted ongoing infrastructure developments, disclosing that Julius Berger had returned to Delta after several years and is currently handling major flyover projects at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, and DSC Roundabout.
“Delta State is open for business, ready for partnership, and determined to consolidate its position as Nigeria’s leading maritime and economic hub”, Oborevwori affirmed.
In his remarks, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye pledged the NPA Board’s readiness to partner with the Delta State Government to revitalize the state’s ports and enhance their contributions to Nigeria’s maritime economy.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the Delta ports — Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu — noting their potential to drive trade, generate employment and support national growth.
“Delta ports currently contribute about 10.7 percent of national trade volumes, which is impressive but there is room for improvement.With stronger collaboration, we can restore the vibrancy of these ports and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime trade”, he said.
Adeyeye explained that the NPA Board, inaugurated in June by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, was undertaking a nationwide tour to assess port challenges and recommend tailored solutions.
He applauded the Delta State Government’s support in enhancing port security, adding that operational safety is crucial to sustaining maritime activity.
He also identified key issues affecting port operations, including underutilization, collapsed quays, shallow drafts, and the absence of a deep seaport , all of which need urgent attention.
The NPA delegation also acknowledged the state government’s efforts in promoting peaceful relations with host communities and supporting corporate social responsibility initiatives that sustain stability.
