By Muhammad Mamman
The UK Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalising the Baro River Port in Niger State, promising a dynamic transformation into a bustling inland hub through strategic investments in dredging, enhanced road and rail networks, and robust private sector collaboration.
Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, delivered this pledge during a session with the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Stakeholders’ Engagement, addressing the challenges and opportunities for the port’s revival.
Despite its commissioning in 2019 under the previous administration, Baro Port has been hampered by inadequate road and rail connections and persistent navigability issues along the River Niger, Oyetola noted.
“The Ministry inherited this project, but progress has been stymied by limited funding,” he admitted. To overcome these hurdles, he outlined a comprehensive plan, including:
• Capital and ongoing dredging of the River Niger to ensure consistent navigability.
• Development of road and rail infrastructure to streamline cargo movement.
• Transparent governance and credible private sector partnerships to boost efficiency.
Oyetola revealed that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) aims to dredge up to 2,000 kilometres of inland waterways, guaranteeing year-round access. “Our Ministry is resolute in turning Baro from a dormant facility into a thriving gateway,” he declared, highlighting collaborative efforts with the Ministries of Works and Transportation to create an integrated infrastructure framework.
The Minister underscored Baro Port’s strategic importance, ideally positioned to connect agricultural supply chains and link with other inland ports such as Onitsha, Lokoja, and Warri. A revitalised Baro Port could significantly enhance the UK’s trade competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while alleviating pressure on national road networks.
Bola Oyebamiji, NIWA’s Managing Director, reflected on the port’s historical significance, noting its establishment in 1908 by Lord Lugard to facilitate the transport of agricultural goods and livestock between northern and southern regions. Despite the port’s structural completion, inadequate dredging and transport links continue to limit its potential. Oyebamiji disclosed that the Baro project, initially contracted at 2.2 billion, is 94% funded, with 2.06 billion already disbursed. Plans are underway to concession the port to private operators, attracting fresh investment and expertise.
Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, Minister of Transportation, confirmed that a rail line is being developed to integrate Baro with national transport networks, urging MPs to bolster budgetary support to address funding shortfalls. Rt. Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi, Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee, emphasised the committee’s facilitative role, stating, “Baro Port’s value is immense and non-negotiable.” He announced a national stakeholders’ forum to galvanise political, technical, and financial support.
Responding to concerns raised by Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, Oyetola acknowledged funding delays but expressed confidence that, with parliamentary backing, these challenges would soon be surmounted. The committee resolved to conduct an on-site assessment of Baro Port this Saturday, marking a critical step towards its full operationalisation.
