Reps Launch Probe into Nigeria's Ports Concessionaires

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives commenced an investigation into the performance of ports' concessionaires in Nigeria, focusing on the period from 2006 to 2025. This probe, undertaken by an ad hoc committee, is expected to scrutinize the operations and compliance records of stakeholders involved in the concession regime introduced nearly two decades ago.

Key agencies involved include the Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Port Authority, Nigerian Shippers Council, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. The committee, chaired by Mr.

Kolawole Akinlayo, aims to assess the performance of concessionaires to determine value for money and identify gaps in the concession agreements. Akinlayo emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the process, urging concessionaires to present verifiable operational records.

Olayiwola Olarenwaju, Executive Director of Port Cargo Terminal, outlined investments made since the commencement of the concession regime, including the deployment of over 125 trucks and significant upgrades to infrastructure. The investigation seeks to ensure that the federal government derives optimal benefits from these arrangements.