The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello Koko, has stated that the authority is open to investments from private individuals to develop other strategic deep seaports in the country, as the Lekki Deep Sea Port nears completion.
The Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is 80 percent complete and slated to be commissioned later in the year is a multi-purpose, modern deep sea port at the heart of the Lagos Free Trade Zone, projected to drive trade and business in Nigeria, West Africa and also to the rest of the world.
According to Bello-Koko, the vision is to have a fully automated port system that will fit into the global port standards.
Mohammed Bello Koko, Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
The NPA boss disclosed that he would also pursue the rehabilitation of decaying ports infrastructure, improve marine services, cut down expenditures, improve revenue generation, and aggressively recover debts.
He added that the authority will not relent in its core mandate of trade facilitation; easing gridlock in the ports corridors, and encouraging the full utilization of the Eastern Ports.
“With my experience as the Executive Director F&A and later Acting Managing Director, I will continue to work with all stakeholders to create an institution that is responsive to the expectations of the government, maritime industry, and the general public.
“As we move to complete the @LekkiPort, we are open to investments to develop other strategic deep seaports in the country.
“While also pursuing rehabilitation of decaying ports infrastructure, improving marine services, cutting down expenditures, improving revenue, and pursuing aggressively, recovery of debts.
“We will however not relent on our core mandate — trade facilitation; easing gridlock in the ports corridors, and encouraging the full utilization of the Eastern Ports.
“Our vision is to have a fully automated port system that will fit into the global port standards.
“I’m not unaware of the enormity of the task reposed on me.
I will, therefore, carry it out with utmost diligence and put the national interest ahead and above anything else,” he further added.
The NPA helsman thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for the opportunity to serve the nation; and the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, whose recommendation played a significant role in his appointment.
He also appreciated the Board, Management, and staff of the Authority for their support and professional relationship, as well as friends, family and key stakeholders in the sector.
Deep Seaports: Nigerian Ports Authority opens to investors for development