By Monday Ajogun

The Onitsha River Port Manager, Mr Martins Osazuwa, says the port can generate N10 billion annually if fully operational.

Osazuwa disclosed this in Onitsha while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He confirmed a barge recently berthed at the port—the first in 2025.

He said the barge was loaded with tiles from a company based in Ajaokuta, Kogi.

He described the barge’s arrival as a success story that other companies could emulate to cut transportation costs.

Osazuwa listed challenges facing the port, including insecurity, low patronage and delays in dredging the River Niger.

He urged the federal and state governments to provide incentives that would attract more patronage to the port.

The manager also appealed to government to dredge the port, noting this would ease movement of goods.

According to him, the presence of militant youths and pirates also hampers the port’s full operation.

“Government should assist us in overcoming these challenges and encourage stakeholders to utilise the port,” he said.

He described the port as the “golden egg” of the eastern region, with vast economic potential.

“If fully operational, the port could save money, reduce road pressure, decongest Lagos and other ports, and generate up to N100 billion,” Osazuwa added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor / Kamal Tayo Oropo