The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has commenced the reconstruction of six berths at Rivers Port in Port Harcourt, while BUA Group is investing $85 million to expand its terminal, in a major push to increase cargo throughput and strengthen operations at Nigeria’s eastern ports.
The twin projects are expected to significantly boost cargo handling capacity, improve port efficiency and enhance the competitiveness of Rivers Port as a key maritime gateway for trade in the South-South and South-East regions.
Speaking during a visit by BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, to the NPA headquarters in Lagos, Managing Director of the authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, said the rehabilitation of the six berths forms part of the government’s strategy to modernise port infrastructure and attract more private sector investment.
He said the combined investments would raise cargo volumes by between 13 and 14 per cent upon completion, describing the projected growth as a strong performance for the port industry.
According to Dantsoho, the NPA is working closely with private investors to unlock the economic potential of the eastern ports, increase trade activities and generate more revenue for the country.
Rabiu said BUA’s $85 million terminal expansion will provide about 600 metres of additional quay frontage to support the company’s rapidly growing import operations.
He explained that BUA Foods is expected to import more than two million tonnes of raw materials annually through Port Harcourt after the completion of its ongoing expansion programme next year, making additional terminal capacity essential.
The BUA chairman noted that the investment would not only improve cargo-handling efficiency but also support the company’s long-term expansion in the food manufacturing sector.
The latest investments underscore renewed efforts by both the Federal Government and private sector operators to reposition Nigeria’s eastern ports as competitive alternatives to the country’s congested western port corridor while stimulating industrial growth and regional trade.
