FG Moves to Revitalise Eastern Ports, Awards Escravos Channel Dredging Contract

The Federal Government has taken another step towards revitalising Nigeria’s Eastern Ports with the award of a contract for the reconstruction and dredging of the Escravos Channel at Warri Port, Delta State.

The project, being implemented through the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), is part of the wider rehabilitation and modernisation programme for the Eastern Ports, including Warri Port.

The development was confirmed by Mr Ikechukwu Oyenmakara, General Manager of Corporate and Strategic Communication at the NPA.

According to Oyenmakara, the reconstruction and dredging of the Escravos Channel is one of several projects under the authority’s Eastern Ports modernisation initiative.

He said the programme comprises six distinct projects designed to improve infrastructure and operations at the ports.

He stated: “The project is part of the Eastern Ports modernization projects awarded to China Habour Engineering recently. There are about six different projects under the Eastern Ports modernization programme.”

The contract comes against the backdrop of persistent concerns over the shallow draught of the Escravos Channel, which has made access to Warri Port difficult for vessels.

Ships calling at the port have repeatedly run aground because of the condition of the channel, creating operational challenges for maritime stakeholders.

Local ship pilots have similarly raised concerns about the frequent grounding incidents, noting that the situation has made navigation more difficult and increased the challenges associated with their duties.

The reconstruction and dredging of the channel are therefore expected to improve vessel navigation and form part of the government’s broader drive to restore the efficiency and competitiveness of the Eastern Ports.

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