Korede Abdullah in Lagoa
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has flagged off the Gateway Inland Dry Port (GIDP) project in Ogun State, emphasizing its role in improving connectivity between inland states and coastal areas.
At the landmark ceremony, Oyetola stressed the need for inland ports, citing congestion at traditional seaports, which results in longer transport times and increased costs. The GIDP will provide faster and more efficient alternatives, benefiting the economy and reducing the burden on coastal seaports.
“This project will create over 5,000 direct jobs, 15,000 indirect jobs, and stimulate local businesses,” Oyetola said. “It’s a critical component of our strategy to position Nigeria as a leading player in the Blue Economy.”
Oyetola stated further that developing inland dry ports is crucial to Nigeria’s strategy of becoming a leading player in the Blue Economy. He emphasized that as Nigeria diversifies its economy, creating infrastructure that facilitates key nodes in the supply chain is essential to reduce dependence on traditional seaport.
“The development of inland dry ports, like this one, is a critical component of our broader strategy to position Nigeria as a leading player in the Blue Economy. As we continue to diversify our economy, it is essential to create infrastructure that serves as key nodes in our supply chain, reducing our reliance on traditional seaports.
This Inland Dry Port will enhance the efficiency of our logistics network, contributing to the decongestion of Apapa and Tin Can Ports and improving Nigeria’s trade competitiveness on the global stage.”, the Minister said.
He noted that the Inland Dry Port will improve logistics efficiency, alleviate congestion at Apapa and Tin Can Ports, and enhance Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun hailed the facility as a key enabler of industrial activity and manufacturing, set to increase the state’s ranking on the ease of doing business index.
The project aims to enhance logistics efficiency, decongest Apapa and Tin Can Ports, and improve Nigeria’s trade competitiveness globally.
