Onitsha River Port's 'Golden Egg' Potential: N100 Billion Annually at Stake
The Onitsha River Port, managed by Mr Martins Osazuwa, holds immense potential to generate up to N100 billion annually, according to its manager. Mr Osazuwa sees the port as a 'golden egg' for the eastern region, capable of saving money, reducing road pressure, and decongesting Lagos and other ports. However, several challenges, including insecurity, low patronage, and delays in dredging the River Niger, need to be addressed for the port to reach its full potential.
Mr Osazuwa estimates that the port can generate N10 billion annually if fully operational. He appeals to the government to dredge the port to ease movement of goods and urges federal and state governments to provide incentives to attract more patronage. The port recently had its first barge berthing in 2025, loaded with tiles from a company based in Ajaokuta, Kogi. Despite these steps, challenges persist, including militant youths and pirates, which Mr Osazuwa believes can be overcome with the government's support and encouragement of stakeholders to utilise the port.
The Onitsha River Port's potential is undeniable, with the capacity to significantly boost the economy of the eastern region. To fully realise this potential, the government must address the port's challenges, provide necessary infrastructure, and create incentives for increased patronage. With these measures in place, the port can truly become the 'golden egg' that Mr Osazuwa envisions.
