FG Moves to Fast-Track Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, Validates Technical Reports with Stakeholders
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has taken a significant step toward advancing the proposed Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, convening a high-level stakeholders’ meeting to review and validate consultancy reports for the project.
The meeting, organised by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, was held at the Green Legacy Resort and brought together key players in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics ecosystem.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the maritime sector as a critical driver of Nigeria’s economy and international trade, stressing that unlocking its full potential requires sustained reforms and data-driven planning.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, the Minister said the validation exercise was designed to go beyond presentations, enabling stakeholders to enrich the consultancy reports with practical insights and institutional expertise.
According to her, the inclusive process allows for the identification of implementation risks while ensuring that recommendations align with existing legal and policy frameworks.
She noted that harmonising stakeholder perspectives would promote a shared understanding of the project and strengthen transparency and ownership, which is a key ingredients for successful execution.
Mahmood also commended the Ogun State Government for its cooperation, particularly the provision of land for the project, adding that the consultancy is expected to be completed within 12 months.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the State Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to positioning Ogun as a major industrial and logistics hub, with the inland dry port playing a central role.
Earlier, Director of Maritime Services, Meshack Adeola Oyinloye, said the project aligns with key national frameworks, including the National Transport Policy and the Nigerian Ports Masterplan. He highlighted its importance in decongesting seaports, facilitating trade, and supporting Nigeria’s obligations under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Participants at the meeting included representatives of the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and Dewlands International Company Limited, among other stakeholders.
In a statement issued on April 15, 2026, Director of Information and Public Relations, Anastasia Ogbonna, said the collaborative validation process reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, and globally competitive maritime sector.
Ogbonna noted that the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port initiative remains a cornerstone of efforts to drive economic growth through the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.
Cover Photo Caption: The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, (5th left), the representative of the Ogun State Government and Ogun State Commissioner for Transport, Engr. Gbenga Dairo (4th left) with top management at the Stakeholders meeting on the review and validation of the report by the consultants for the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port in Abeokuta.
