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ADC Kicks Against Continued Detention Of El-Rufai

March 19, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The opposition Coalition platform the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has signified its intention to petition both national and international human rights organizations including Amnesty international over the continued detention of the former Kaduna state Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai.

The ADC’s position is coming against growing fears that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, may not be willing to grant bail to El-Rufai when his remand order expires on Thursday ,March 19, 2026.

The source reports that El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the ADC, has been under the custody of the ICPC since February 18,2026, when he was granted bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.

He is facing inter-agency investigations on multiple charges bordering on alleged money laundering, diversion of public funds and security related Offences.

Although, a 14-day court remand extension granted to the anti-graft Commission by a Bwari Abuja Chief Magistrate court, on March 5, 2026, is set to elapse on Thursday, there are strong indications that, El-Rufai will neither be charged nor granted bail as required by law

Similarly, sources have revealed that there are plans to keep El-Rufai in custody, until April 23, 2026, when he is due for arraignment by the Department of State Service, DSS, over alleged wire-tapping of the telephone lines of the, National Security Adviser, NSA.

However, in a statement on Wednesday March 18, 2026, by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi the ADC expressed serious disgust and concern over the continued violation of the fundamental human rights of the former Kaduna State Governor.

“The African Democratic Congress declares that the continued violation of the fundamental rights of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is a stain on the conscience of our democracy, and a dangerous descent into lawlessness by the Bola Tinubu-led Government.

“Thirty days ago, the former Governor of Kaduna state , Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, honoured an invitation by the EFCC’ in good faith, an act that should define a law-abiding citizen in a democratic society.

“He was taken again immediately by the ICPC after his release by the EFCC’ . Today,more than 30 days later ,he remains in custody without arraignment, without charges ,and under conditions that , by his own account include restrictions from his family members and doctor: coercion to abandon his political rights ,and associations as the price for his freedom.

“Let us be clear: this is not law enforcement. This is weaponization of state institutions against political participation.

“It is illegal. It is unconstitutional. It is an affront to the very idea of Nigeria as a democratic country.

“Freedom is not a privilege that is granted at the pleasure of the executive branch. It is a right that is guaranteed by the Constitution.

“The right to liberty. The right to fair hearing. The right to political participation. These are not negotiable. They are not conditional.

“And they are not to be negotiated in dark rooms under threat by agencies that report to President Tinubu and his appointees.

” Nevertheless, as a law-abiding party, today, the ADC calls on all Nigerians across party lines , across states, across religion, to rise in defence of the Constitution .

“Today, it is El-Rufai, Tomorrow, it could be anyone else that the President sees as a threat to his 2027 agenda”, ADC stated.

While demanding the immediate release of El-Rufai or his arraignment before a court of competent jurisdiction, the opposition Coalition platform said it will not hesitate to take its case to the court of public opinion both nationally and Internationally.

The source reports that El-Rufai in a 30-page affidavit in support of his fundamental human rights suit filed against his continued detention , alleged that the ICPC has made his renounciation of all political activities, including active collaboration and participation in the activities of the ADC a necessary pre-condition for his freedom.

Emir Of Kano, Sanusi To Lead Modified Eid-el-Fitr Dubar

Ayodele Oni

March 19, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Despite unfavourable security report, Kano State Government has confirmed that the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, will lead the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr Durbar in the State.

However, the procession has been restricted to designated routes and will be supported by tight security.

The announcement was made through a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya.

The statement revealed that the decision followed credible intelligence indicating potential attempts by some individuals to disrupt the Sallah celebrations.

It emphasized the state government’s commitment to preserving Kano’s rich cultural heritage while ensuring public safety during the festivities.

Details of the festivities include Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar), which will be led by Emir Sanusi from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground along designated routes to Gidan Shettima, concluding at Kofar Fatalwa within the Emir’s Palace.

The government also noted that Hawan Nasarawa will proceed in a modified format without horseback displays, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi have been temporarily suspended to maintain safety.

Authorities have directed security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforce strict compliance with the outlined protocols before, during, and after the celebrations.

Residents were urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security officials. The government assured the public of a peaceful Eid-el-Fitr and extended wishes of joy to Muslims across the state

Sultan To ICPC: Arraign El-Rufai In Court Or Grant Him Bail… Expresses Concern Over US Troops In Nigeria

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 19, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

As condemnations and public outrage continue to trail the unending detention of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, the Sultan of Sokoto Mohammad Sa’ad Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu and all the relevant authorities to either file charges against him or release him.

The source reports that El-Rufai who is facing inter-agency investigations on multiple charges bordering on alleged money laundering, diversion of public funds and security related Offences, has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, since February 18, 2026, when he was granted bail by a sister agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.

In a sermon online, fiery and outspoken Muslim scholar and Cleric, Sheikh Sunusi Khalil informed that Sultan Abubakar has sued for respect for the rule of law and due process in the handling of El-Rufai’s case.

According to the Kaduna-based prominent Islamic preacher, the leader of the Muslim Community in Nigeria is demanding that the former Kaduna State Governor should either be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction if there is a prima facie case established against him, and be granted bail while investigations continue.

” The Sultan is not saying that suspected offenders should not face the law; rather his position is that due process should be followed”, Sheikh Khalil stated.

The Cleric who, a couple months ago was a guest of the Department of State Service, DSS, over alleged incendiary and inflammatory sermons, also relayed the Sultan’s serious concern over the growing presence of the United States of America’s troops in Northern Nigeria.

According to Khalil, the Sultan’s concern is centred on the ambiguous roles of the foreign troops in the country, particularly the failure of the authorities to properly explain if the USA troops are going to be limited to the training of Nigerian security personnel, or a military base is going to be established for them.

“If a base is going to be established for them ( USA troops) why the Northern Nigeria?” the Sultan was quoted as quering.

This is as Sheikh Khalil expressed his total support for the positions of the Sultan.

“We, at our level, can’t pose such hard questions, because it can be misconstrued or perceived as being disrespectful; but I am happy that the Sultan is asking the right questions ,and in that case, he will always have our support and prayers”, Sheikh Khalil noted.

Although details of the meeting between the Sultan and President Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa on March 15, 2026, is not public, sources revealed that the twin issues of the continued detention of El-Rufai and the presence of the USA troops in the country topped the agenda.

This Magazine gathered that Sultan Abubakar clearly expressed the concern of the Northern region over the fate of El-Rufai and others, the presence of American troops, and other burning issues during his less than half an hour parley with the president.

Sheikh Khalil’s disclosure, however, is coming on the heels of attempts by the ICPC to explain away its continued detention of El-Rufai without trial.

In a statement on Tuesday March 17, 2026, from its spokesperson John Odey, the anti-graft Commission while debunking reports suggesting that it is shopping for a new remand order, insisted that El-Rufai is being held under a subsisting court order.

According to the ICPC, the former Kaduna state Governor is being held under a 14-day remand order secured on March 5, 2026, which will run out on March 19, 2026.

The Commission emphasized that its appearance in court on March 17, 2026, was not for the purpose of renewing the remand order as widely reported in the media, but for the hearing of an application filed by El-Rufai seeking to invalidate the remand extension granted by the court on March 5.

The ICPC’s statement informed that during court proceedings, the Commission’s response was served on El-Rufai’s counsel, whose request for time to study same led to the court’s adjournment to March 31, 2026.

NBA President Has No Power To Publicly Reprimand Judge – Lawyers

Ayodele Oni

March 18, 2026

Afam Osigwe - NBA President — Afam Osigwe, NBA President.

By Ayodele Oni

Lawyers under the aegis of the Nigerian Law Society, (NLS), have dragged the President of Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA), Afam Osigwe, SAN, to the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee, (LPPC), for ‘publicly reprimanding’ a judge.

The LPPC, which confers the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN), on qualified legal practitioners, also maintains legal standards and oversees the regulation of SANs.

Recall Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had ordered Marshall Abubakar, the lead defence counsel to publisher, Omoyele Sowore, to step forward and kneel in open court for raising his voice during proceedings.

Justice Umar also threatened to commit Abubakar to prison for contempt.

Other lawyers in the court had to intervene, pleading for leniency before the judge backed down.

Reacting to the development, the NBA, in a statement issued by its President, Osigwe, condemned the judge’s action, stressing that he has no right to ask a lawyer to kneel in court.

“A judge directing a legal practitioner or indeed any person whatsoever to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the Bench,” the statement said.

However, the matter has taken another turn with the Nigerian Law Society, an association of non-litigation lawyers, asking the Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to refer Osigwe to the LPPC for investigation and possible sanctions, for publicly reprimanding a judge.

The CJN, who serves as chairman of the LPPC, also heads the National Judicial Council, NJC, which handles issues concerning misconduct by judicial officers.

NLS faulted the statement issued by the NBA President, describing it as public reprimand which undermines and demeans the authority of judges.

The association suggested that Osigwe should have referred the matter to the NJC “through a more discreet method to avoid demeaning or diminishing the respect to be accorded judges by both Nigerian lawyers and citizen.”

In a letter addressed to the CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, dated March 17, 2026, signed by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Tonye Clinton Jaja, the NLS said the NBA President overstepped his bounds.

“Assuming though not conceding, Mr. Mazi Afam Ozigwe, SAN, in his capacity as President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is entitled to freedom of speech under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,1999, there are legally prescribed channels to express his dissatisfaction such as submission of a petition against the said judge to the National Judicial Council (NJC).

“This is because as a general rule of law, the right to freedom of speech (as well as other rights guaranteed under the Constitution of Nigeria) do not confer absolute rights.

“For example, only one week ago, the same President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) wrote a public press statement admonishing the Code of Conduct Bureau to desist from inviting or investigating the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court.

“He cited Supreme Court of Nigeria judgment to make a case for the said Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to be referred to the NJC.

“Therefore, it is a contradiction for the same President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to be quick to write a press statement in condemnation of Hon. Justice Mohammed Garba Umar instead of seeking his referral to the NJC,” the NLS said.

The association observed that, recently, the CJN had cause to publicly caution the NBA President to desist from making blanket and sweeping generalisations that all judges in Nigeria are corrupt.

“We conclude by stating that all Nigerian judges enjoy the power and authority to apply discretion in imposing any penalties for acts of contempt in the face of the court.

The Nigerian Law Society expressed concern at the high rate of misconduct among legal practitioners in the country, noting that adherence to professional conduct is at an all time low. It insisted that judges should be given the powers to tackle the problem.

“The adherence to professional conduct is at an all time low amongst Nigerian lawyers as evident by the increasing number of cases at the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).”

Maiduguri Blast: Amaechi Accuses Tinubu’s Govt Of killing Nigerians

Adesina Soyooye

March 18, 2026

By Adesina Soyooye

“One day, the people will rise and reject incompetence”

Immediate past Minister of Transportation under the Government of late President Muhammadu Buhari, Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s Government of killing Nigerians.

Amaechi, a former APC chieftain-turned African Democratic Congress, ADC, chieftain, spoke on the heels of the tragic bomb blasts in Maiduguri, Borno State on March 16, 2026 which resulted in the deaths of 23 souls and 108 injured persons.

He lamented the persistent failure of the Tinubu-led Federal Government to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. He described President Tinubu’s efforts as “abysmally incompetent and lacking the basic leadership skill set to protect Nigerians.”

Amaechi in a statement he issued on Tuesday to commiserate with the families of the victims of the bombing incident in Maiduguri said “Nigerians cannot continue to mourn and live in fear, while Tinubu and his lackeys at the helm of affairs in the country, live lavishly and ostentatiously while failing to take decisive actions to put an end to the raging insecurity.”

Amaechi: “This government is killing Nigerians. I repeat, President Tinubu’s government is killing Nigerians, literally destroying lives. He has failed in the most sacred duty of protecting the lives of its citizens.

“The Monday bombings in Maiduguri is not just a tragedy, it is a damning indictment of a leadership that has grown complacent, incompetent, and indifferent to the sufferings and death of Nigerians to ravaging bandits.

“While families mourn and communities live in fear, those in power issue hollow statements and make empty promises.

“In fact now, they don’t bother to make promises anymore. They just move on as if nothing happened.

“Tinubu would rather be dining and partying in London while Nigeria burns. They just don’t care!

“How many more lives must be lost before they admit their failure? How many more communities must be shattered and destroyed before they take decisive action?

“Insecurity has become the daily reality of ordinary citizens, and yet the government continues to stumble, unprepared and unwilling to confront the menace with the seriousness it demands.

“Nigerians deserve safety, peace, and dignity, not negligence and continued excuses.

“If those in power cannot guarantee that, then they have no business clinging to authority.

“Leadership is not about rhetoric, it is about responsibility, action, and making the right decisions for the good of the people.

“Right now, this government has abandoned that responsibility, and the nation is paying the price,”

Sympathizing with the people of Borno state, and the victims of the bombings and their innocent families “whose lives have now been shattered because of Tinubu’s government failure to protect them,” Amaechi added that enough is enough. He asked President Tinubu to resign since he has failed woefully in the Performa of his basic responsibility of protecting lives and property of Nigerians.

He said that the people will not be silenced, and will not accept to live in continued fear.

“One day, the people will rise and resist incompetence, reclaim their right to live in peace and safety. Only then will the government realise that the people’s voice is stronger than bombs, and failed leadership.”

Eid-Rl-Fitr Celebration: Nigeria Police, NSCDC Commands Deploy 4,000 Personnel To Praying Grounds

Ayodele Oni

March 18, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo state Police Command and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have announced the deployment of no fewer than 4,000 police personnel to guard various praying grounds across the state to ensure a peaceful and secure Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, explained that the deployment forms part of proactive security measures aimed at safeguarding lives and property before, during, and after the festive period.

A statement by the command’s spokesman Abayomi Jimoh stated that “The personnel will be strategically positioned at Eid prayer grounds, major highways, recreational centres, markets, and other critical public spaces.

“This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by security agencies nationwide to strengthen safety during the Sallah celebrations, as heightened security operations have been activated across various states.

“The Command further disclosed that special units, including Tactical Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (EOD-CBRN), Police Mobile Force and State Intelligence Department operatives have been mobilised for both covert and overt operations to prevent criminal activities and respond swiftly to any security threats.

“Residents are urged to remain vigilant, cooperate with security operatives, and report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station or through emergency lines.

“The Command reassures the good people of Ondo State of its unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, while wishing all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Fitr celebration.”

Also, the State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oluyemi Ibiloye, approved deployment 1000 officers and men, along with other operational assets of the Corps, to beef up security ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Daniel Aidamenbor,

Head, Media & Public Relations

NSCDC Ondo State Command revealed that the deployment was contained in an Operational Order released to all formation and tactical heads on Tuesday, in preparation for the end of ramadan fast and the easter celebration in the state.

Area of responsibilities (AoR) include, Eid Prayer grounds, recreational centers, markets, motor parks, worship centres as well as other Critical National, State, and Local Government Assets and Infrastructure.

Tactical and specialized units, including the Agro Rangers Team, Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Rapid Tactical Squad, Anti-Vandalism Squad, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and Disaster Management Unit, will be deployed to public spaces and strategic public places prone to criminal activities.

Area Commanders and Divisional officers are to intensify surveillance and visibility patrol across flashpoints in their area of responsibilities by synergising with sister agencies in information gathering and sharing.

The Commandant also urged officers and men to be committed, vigilant, and professional, while respecting citizens’ fundamental rights.

He warned that strict observance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Rules of Engagement (ROE), and Service Orders (SO) must be obeyed in the discharge of their duties.

Commandant Ibiloye extends his goodwill messages to muslim faithfuls and urged members of the public to remain resolute, law abiding and vigilant during and after the celebration.

Yoruba Nation Agitator, Igboho’s Threat To Opposition Undemocratic – CD

Ayodele Oni

March 18, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Campaign for Democracy (CD), has warned Yoruba nation Agitator, Sunday Igboho, to desist from making inflammatory statements and attempting to stifle opposition voices in the South West region of Nigeria.

In a statement signed by Pastor Ifeanyi Odili, National President of CD, the organization expressed concern that Igboho’s recent statements, including his threat that no other opposition party should be allowed to campaign in South West Nigeria, are a clear attempt to undermine the democratic process and intimidate opposition parties.

“CD condemns Igboho’s attempt to impose a one-party rule in the South West region and deny Nigerians their fundamental right to participate in the electoral process. This is a recipe for disaster and a threat to Nigeria’s fragile democracy.”

The statement emphasized that Nigeria is a pluralistic society where citizens have the right to participate in the democratic process, regardless of their ethnic, religious, or political affiliations.

CD stressed that Igboho’s actions are manifestation of deeper problem of intolerance and disregard for the rule of law.

The organization urged Igboho to refrain from making provocative statements and instead focus on addressing the pressing issues of banditry, insecurity, and economic hardship facing the nation.

CD also called on Yoruba elders to counsel Igboho to respect the rights of others and toe the line of peace and national unity.

It condemned the APC’s alleged attempts to transform Nigeria into a one-party state, saying it would be a regression to the military era.

The organization called on security agencies to ensure that all Nigerians are free to exercise their rights without fear or intimidation.

CD reiterated its commitment to defending democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Nigeria, and vowed to take all necessary actions to ensure that the country’s democratic institutions are protected.

Ondo: Ikare Central Mosque Reopens, Four Years After Closure

Ayodele Oni

March 18, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The highlight of Ramadan Iftar hosted by the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday, was the announcement ordering the reopening of Ikare Central Mosque.

Governor Aiyedatiwa ordered the immediate reopening of the Ikare Akoko Central Mosque which had been shut down almost four years ago.

The Governor gave the order, during an annual Iftar Ramadan fast prayer organised by the state government at the Dome International Event Centre, Alagbaka, Akure.

He also advised those behind the plot to remove Grand Chief Imani of the mosque to bury the idea, following resolution of disagreement which led to the crisis.

Aiyedatiwa also ordered that the Grand Chief Imam of Ikare, Sheik Abubakar Mohammed Abas, would continue to lead islamic Prayers and activities in the town.

The Governor said the Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadiri Momoh, as well as the Grand Mufti of Ikare and Ondo state, Sheikh Shehu Batuta and the Grand Chief Imam, Sheikh Abubakar should ensure that the directive of reopening the mosque is effected in the spirit of love and unity.

Sheikh Abubakar was recently appointed as the State Vice Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas by a special committee chaired by Sheikh Shehu Batuta.

The Ondo state government, led by the late Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, had shut down the Ikare Central mosque on October 18, 2022, to prevent violent clashes.

The closure was necessitated by a leadership dispute regarding an alleged plot to remove the Grand Chief Imam, Sheik Abubakar Mohammed Abas by the Ikare Muslim council.

The move caused tension and safety concerns on October 10, 2022, which was rejected by majority of other Islamic bodies in the town and the state.

The latest pronouncement by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Tuesday led to massive applause and jubilation at the venue of the Iftar attended by the Olukare, Shehu Batuta and the Chief Imam, while the news also led to commendations and prayers for the Governor across social media platforms.

FG Declares 2-day Holiday To Mark Eid-el-Fitr

James Orji

March 18, 2026

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays in celebration of the Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the Muslim one month fast also known as Ramadan.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on Tuesday, urging Muslims to continue to show the virtues of love, generosity and sacrifice as exemplified during the Holy Ramadan month. .

The minister spoke In a statement singed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, extending warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Muslim faithful in the country.

Tunji-Ojo urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance and sacrifice, which were emphasised during the holy month of Ramadan.

He also called on Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the continued peace, unity and prosperity of the country.

While wishing Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, the minister encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.

“The Federal Government remains committed to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians,” the Minister said.

FG, UK To Sign £746m Port Modernisation Deal During Tinubu’s Visit

James Orji

March 18, 2026

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, has disclosed that the federal government and the Unite Kingdom, K government have reached a £746 million deal for the modernization of two major seaports in the country.

The funding arrangement from His Majesty Government, according to a statement issued by the Minister’s Spokesperson, Bolaji Akinola, will be used for the face-lift of Apapa and Tin Can seaports in Lagos.

The deal, according to the statement will be signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the UK. Tinubu arrived the European country on Tuesday with other top federal government officials, ahead of the visit expected to kick off today, Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

According to the minister, the two ports handle more than 70 percent of the nation’s export and import, saying the funding was secured through the UK Export Finance.

He stressed that the deal signals “a deepening of strategic economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom while opening a new chapter in Nigeria’s maritime development” adding that the modernisation is the first since the establishment of the two seaports many years ago.

Oyetola described the financing package as a transformative milestone for the country’s port system.

He added that the scale and scope of the modernisation project mark the first comprehensive overhaul of the facilities since their establishment.

The minister explained that the project forms a central pillar of the Federal Government’s broader agenda to unlock the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy while restoring efficiency and global competitiveness to the country’s maritime infrastructure.

“This financing agreement represents a defining moment for Nigeria’s maritime sector,” the minister said.

He added that for decades, Apapa Port and Tincan Island Port have borne the weight of national trade, “yet their infrastructure has not kept pace with the scale and complexity of modern global shipping. What we are set to do is not merely an upgrade, but a comprehensive transformation that will bring our ports into alignment with international best practice.”

Oyetola noted that the partnership with the United Kingdom reflects a shared commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and advancing sustainable maritime development.

“Through this historic collaboration with the United Kingdom, we are laying the groundwork for a new era in the management and operation of Nigerian ports,” he said.

“Modern infrastructure supported by digitalised and automated processes will significantly enhance efficiency, transparency, and operational reliability. Our objective is clear: to create a port system that is modern, competitive, and capable of serving as a strategic maritime hub for West and Central Africa.”

The minister said the modernisation programme will introduce advanced cargo-handling infrastructure, expanded port capacity, and integrated digital systems designed to eliminate many of the operational bottlenecks that have historically slowed cargo movement through Nigeria’s busiest ports.

Oyetola highlighted that, once completed, the reforms will fundamentally reshape the operational landscape of Nigeria’s maritime gateways. He mentioned that vessel turnaround times are expected to decline significantly, while cargo dwell times within the ports will be sharply reduced as automated systems replace paper-based procedures and outdated manual processes.

“Efficiency at the ports is central to the health of the national economy. By modernising our infrastructure and embracing digital technologies, we will enable faster clearance of imports and exports, reduce demurrage and logistics costs for businesses, and ensure a more predictable and transparent cargo movement system.

“These improvements will not only ease trade but will also stimulate economic growth and generate increased revenue for national development,” Oyetola said.

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