The Federal Government has restated its commitment to the $3 billion Agge Deep Seaport project in Bayelsa State, citing its potential to create jobs, boost economic development, and attract both local and foreign investment to the Niger Delta region.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made this known over the weekend in Yenagoa during the flag-off of a marine safety sensitisation campaign and the distribution of 3,500 life jackets to inland waterways users in the state.
Oyetola said the seaport project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s broader Marine and Blue Economy vision, a key component of the administration’s economic revitalisation agenda.
He noted that the ministry is working closely with relevant stakeholders to fast-track the realisation of the project, which is expected to serve as a major maritime gateway in the South-South. The port, he added, will help decongest existing ports, facilitate international trade, and drive growth in logistics, shipbuilding, fisheries, tourism, and other related sectors.
The minister also commended Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa for supporting the federal government’s marine development efforts and aligning with the national Blue Economy strategy.
Speaking on the life jacket distribution, Oyetola described it as part of the federal government’s national safety initiative, aimed at reducing fatalities on the nation’s waterways.
“This landmark initiative is strategic, proactive, and long overdue. It responds directly to the alarming rate of boat mishaps across Nigeria,” he said. “Water transportation is critical for many rural and riverine communities, yet remains risky when safety measures are lacking. With these life jackets, we are equipping fishermen, traders, students, and transport operators with basic life-saving tools.”
He added that the current distribution in 12 selected states marks one of the most comprehensive responses to inland waterway safety challenges in recent years.
In his remarks, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, called on the federal government to fulfil its promise to support the development of the Agge Deep Seaport.
He described the project as a vital gateway to both regional and international trade, expressing confidence in its transformative potential for Bayelsa and the nation.
“We are happy that the minister has emphasised the importance of the Agge Seaport,” Diri said. “But we will be even happier if all stakeholders work together to see it completed and functional. This project will not only open up Bayelsa but will also serve as a gateway to economic growth across Nigeria.”
Nzubechukwu Eze.
