Nigeria probes barge operator marginalization

Gboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has directed the Nigeria — Nigerian Shippers Council to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation into allegations of systemic efforts to marginalize indigenous barge operators at Nigeria's seaports. Local operators have raised concerns about what they describe as a coordinated attempt by certain foreign interests, supported by unfavorable policies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment from terminal operators, to push them out of the maritime logistics value chain. These practices are allegedly creating an uneven playing field, eroding indigenous participation, and threatening the survival of local businesses. Gboyega Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to protecting local investments and promoting fair competition, stating that any anti-competitive behavior or policy inconsistency disadvantaging Nigerian businesses would not be tolerated. The outcome of the investigation by the Nigeria — Nigerian Shippers Council is expected to guide necessary regulatory and policy actions to restore balance and safeguard indigenous participation in the sector, aligning with Nigeria's goal of strengthening its marine and blue economy.