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In recent weeks, the federal and state governments of Lagos have combined their efforts to decongest the highways, bridges and causeways of Lagos
The progress made until 39 here have been very slow working groups mobilized for the badignment. The goal is to bring these large vehicles into designated storage bays. Similar efforts in the past have not gone far as truck drivers have invariably re-invaded roads and bridges.
This malaise, which has lasted for a good part of the last 15 years, imposes heavy tolls on roads and bridges. in Lagos that are made to support dead weights not intended for them. They precipitate extreme traffic jams and environmental decay that make life a nightmare for city residents. They also made the Apapa business district abandoned for years.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, joined the call for other ports in the eastern parts of the country to be re-established to enable them to take some of the burden of Lagos and make life more bearable. for residents.
We have been at the forefront of this call because we believe that it is in the best interest of the nation. This will not only expand the base of the marine industry and diversify the benefits of shipping for the benefit of the economy; it will also give more Nigerians a sense of belonging to the country.
Outside the ports of Lagos, there are also seaports at Warri, Koko, Onne, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Ibom Deep Seaport at Ibaka, State of Akwa Ibom, which is still at the stadium. design. There are also many inland dry ports and fuel depots. The main problem with these ports is that the river channels that lead to them are too narrow to accommodate large vessels. Shipping companies find it more convenient to bring their boats to Lagos.
The situation deteriorated after the harbor concession in 2000. The 30% incentive allowed shipowners to use eastern ports when the federal government controlled the ports. ports. took of. Today, with the exception of Onne Harbor, most of the other ports serving the south-east, south-south and north-east flanks are virtually unused.
The channels of these ports must be dredged. Their facilities need to be improved and incentive measures should be taken to enable them to take over a greater part of the nation's maritime activities.
Our total dependence on the ports of Lagos is no longer tenable. It overloads the city and its amenities, especially roads and bridges. Let us try to do what is necessary for the general good of our country.
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