The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to investigate allegations of systemic marginalisation of local barge operators at the nation’s seaports.
The directive was issued during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat in Lagos, according to a statement made available on Monday by Oyetola’s Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola.
Barge operators at the meeting alleged a coordinated effort by certain foreign interests to push indigenous operators out of business, warning that such actions could weaken local capacity and distort competition within Nigeria’s maritime logistics chain.
They also raised concerns over what they described as policy inconsistencies, operational bottlenecks, and preferential treatment allegedly granted to foreign-linked entities by some terminal operators.
According to them, these practices are gradually eroding their market share and threatening the survival of local businesses.
Responding, Oyetola reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting indigenous investments and ensuring a level playing field in the maritime sector.
He tasked the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, the industry’s economic regulator, with conducting a thorough and impartial investigation into the claims.
The minister stressed that anti-competitive practices and policies that disadvantage Nigerian operators would not be tolerated.
He further underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement as a platform for identifying challenges and shaping responsive policy measures.
Minister Oyetola noted that the government remains focused on strengthening the marine and blue economy as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
