Nigeria: Over $7 billion projected to ease congestion at Lagos ports

The Nigerian presidency anticipates over 50,000 direct jobs once the two infrastructures are fully developed. However, these figures do not yet represent a definitively mobilized investment: the statement refers to an “envisaged” initial investment and “projected” jobs, without providing a timeline for execution, a breakdown of funding, or a final investment decision.

The Gateway Deep Seaport is set to be developed at Ogun Waterside. The announced plans include a four-kilometer quay and a draft of 18 meters, sufficient to accommodate large vessels. Abuja aims to relieve pressure on the ports of Apapa and Tin Can Island, where logistical delays increase the costs of imports and exports.

The second component involves the Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, planned over 10,000 hectares. The stated goal is to process imported inputs and Nigerian raw materials before export, linking the site to the road, rail, and electrical networks.

Bola Tinubu has promised regulatory and institutional support from the federal government. The presidency connects the viability of the corridor to the 28 kilometers of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway traversing Ogun, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The statement does not specify the start date for the port or its commissioning.