LOME Faults Sanwo-Olu Over Alleged Pushback on Expanding Ports Outside Lagos

The League of Maritime Editors (LOME) has spoken out against Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over comments he reportedly made about the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) efforts to grow port activity in other parts of the country.

The NPA has been working to shift some of the pressure off Lagos ports by encouraging more use of the Warri Port in Delta, Onne Port in Rivers, and Calabar Port in Cross River. These steps are meant to ease the long-standing congestion at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. One of the solutions already in place is an electronic call-up system to better manage truck movement in Lagos.

In a statement signed by LOME President Remi Itie and Secretary General Felix Kumuyi, the group criticized the governor’s alleged resistance to spreading port operations across the country. They said his position seems to protect Lagos’ control over port business while ignoring the bigger picture of national growth.

LOME said the governor’s comments crossed into matters that are not under state control and could slow down progress in the maritime sector. They stated, “The idea that Lagos should remain the exclusive hub for maritime commerce is outdated and harmful to the broader economy.”

The editors pointed out that Lagos ports have been overwhelmed for years, leading to traffic jams, delays, and corruption. They blamed these problems on poor infrastructure and weak regulation in the state.

They warned that blocking the growth of other ports like Warri, Onne, and Calabar would only hurt the country’s economy. LOME urged for a fairer plan that allows all regions to benefit from port development and helps Nigeria grow as a whole.