By Seun Ibiyemi
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to investigate allegations of systemic efforts to undermine indigenous barge operators at the nation’s seaports.
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 meeting, representatives of local barge operators raised concerns over what they described as a coordinated attempt by certain foreign interests to edge them out of business.
According to the operators, the alleged actions, if unchecked, could weaken local capacity and distort competition within Nigeria’s maritime logistics chain.
They further claimed that policy inconsistencies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment allegedly granted to some foreign-linked entities by terminal operators are creating an uneven playing field.
The operators warned that these challenges are gradually eroding their market share and threatening the survival of indigenous businesses.
Responding, Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting local investments and ensuring fair competition in the maritime sector.
He tasked the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as the industry’s economic regulator, to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations.
The minister stressed that any form of anti-competitive practices or policies that disadvantage Nigerian businesses would not be tolerated.
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He also underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement as a vital platform for identifying sectoral challenges and shaping effective policy responses.
Oyetola added that the government remains focused on strengthening the marine and blue economy sector as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in the country.
