BIPC MD Call on Federal Government to Establish a Deep Sea Port in the State

A growing conversation is emerging in Benue State as residents urge the Federal Government to consider the state for the development of a deep sea port to boost economic growth and regional trade.

In a widely shared social media post, Raymond Asemakaha Jr. called on the Federal Government to include Benue in its seaport development plans, emphasizing the potential for economic transformation. He noted that such a project would allow the state’s people to take ownership of terminals and significantly enhance economic activities.

“If this happens, Benue Economic triple,” he stated, highlighting the anticipated multiplier effects on commerce, agriculture, and job creation.

The appeal comes as the Federal Government has approved certification and compliance processes for five proposed deep seaport projects across the country aimed at reclaiming over 70 percent of Nigerian-bound cargo currently transported to other African nations. The approved projects are:

– Lagos State — Badagry Deep Sea Port
– Ondo State — Olokola Deep Sea Port
– Akwa Ibom State — Ibom Deep Sea Port
– Cross River State — Bakassi Deep Sea Port
– Rivers State — Bonny Deep Sea Port

Stakeholders in Benue believe the state’s strategic location and vast agricultural potential make it a viable candidate for similar infrastructure development, which could open new trade routes and reduce dependence on distant ports.

The call reflects broader aspirations for inclusive infrastructure distribution across Nigeria’s states.