IYC Urges Inclusion of Niger Delta Ports in Maritime Agenda

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has called for the inclusion of Niger Delta ports in Nigeria's national maritime development agenda. In a statement, IYC leader Binebai Princewill commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to modernize Nigeria's port infrastructure while stressing the importance of equitable distribution of national assets.

The IYC urged the development and rehabilitation of key ports in the Niger Delta, including Burutu, Warri, Onne, Sapele, Bonny, Koko, Brass, Agg Deep Seaport, and Gelegel Seaport, which hold strategic advantages for trade and logistics. The council highlighted the need for balanced development across geopolitical zones to decongest Lagos ports, stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance national security.

The IYC emphasized that the Niger Delta, rich in oil and gas resources, deserves equitable access to infrastructure to unlock its economic potential. They urged President Tinubu to ensure that ongoing port development projects reflect true national balance and inclusivity, warning that failure to address these demands could exacerbate ethnic tensions in Nigeria.