Is Sanwo-Olu against Decentralisation of Seaports?

The Delta State Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Ossai Success, recently expressed his disappointment with Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo‑Olu’s senior special assistant on transportation and logistics, Mr. Adekoya Hassan, over his comments against the decision of the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) to extend operations to other ports in the country.

Specifically, Hassan had in a statement recently faulted NPA’s decision to extend operational focus from Lagos ports to the Warri Port Complex.

Many Nigerians, including Success, had expressed their disappointment with Hassan for his comment.

Success added that NPA’s decision to extend operational focus from Lagos ports to the Warri Port Complex will support regional economic development and diversification and in best interest of the country.

He said the decision will create huge job opportunities in Warri, and also help achieve cost reduction and enhanced competitiveness for businesses.

Most importantly, he said it will also reduce port traffic in Lagos, easing urban pressure, adding that fewer trucks on roads means lower congestion and improved quality of life for residents.

Does Hassan’s position represent the position of his principal, Sanwo-Olu? Does he want other ports in Nigeria to die so that only Lagos State will survive economically? Is he happy with the urban pressure and traffic congestion in Lagos? 

Even if there is no traffic gridlock in Lagos, does he prefer only Lagos to grow while other states die?

It is the mindset of the likes of Hassan, which is filled with unhealthy regional rivalry that is dragging Nigeria down as a nation.

Extending maritime activities across multiple ports will curb smuggling, piracy and other criminal activities that thrive in congested Lagos ports.

The move aligns with NPA’s idea of dispersing traffic to reduce delays and lower logistics costs. Moreso as its data shows, Warri and Koko ports are now handling about 45 vessels monthly, with vessel turnaround time dropping to 2.9 days and waiting time under two days.

This is an indication of improved efficiency that takes pressure off Lagos. It shows that dispersing traffic can reduce delays, lower logistics costs and curb inflation.