By: Joy Enamuna

The President of the Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BACCIMA), Mr. Yahaya Oladiran Idris, has called on the Federal Government, Lagos State Government, and stakeholders to resolve all pending issues delaying the commencement of the Badagry Deep Seaport project.

Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) at their 2025 preparatory retreat, Idris emphasized the economic potential of the proposed seaport. He noted that its completion would significantly enhance Nigeria’s maritime and trade infrastructure.

Idris, a retired Deputy Comptroller of Customs, highlighted Badagry’s strategic importance, describing it as a gateway to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Europe. He added that the area’s proximity to the Seme border, its intermodal transportation system, and its access to waterways and major expressways make it a prime location for the seaport.

“We are fully aware of the economic viability of Badagry. It is a critical route to ECOWAS and Europe and home to Nigeria’s most significant border post, the Seme border. With the Badagry Deep Seaport, Nigerian cargoes currently diverted to ports in Benin and Togo will be handled locally. The port will also serve as a transshipment hub for landlocked countries like Niger Republic and Chad,” Idris said.

He further noted that the seaport would reduce smuggling activities by at least 20% and provide significant employment opportunities for artisans, vendors, and other stakeholders. According to him, the project’s completion will attract investors and boost economic growth in the region.

On concerns about the need for another deep seaport given the existence of the Lekki Deep Seaport, Idris explained that Lagos State’s expansive market and trade potential justify the Badagry project. He expressed confidence in the feasibility studies conducted by the promoters, asserting that the port would complement existing infrastructure rather than compete with it.

Addressing the issue of Nigeria’s porous borders, Idris urged the federal government to reopen land borders to vehicle imports, stressing that continued closure leads to revenue losses and unnecessary casualties among customs officers chasing smugglers. He called for better border management to reduce smuggling and enhance trade.

On trade facilitation, Idris emphasized the collective responsibility of importers, customs agents, and regulatory agencies. He identified transparency and honesty as key factors in streamlining cargo clearance processes. He also urged the government to clarify the overlapping roles of agencies like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), which currently delay trade facilitation.

The BACCIMA President commended the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly the Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for prioritizing staff welfare and promoting officers regularly. “CGC Adeniyi has motivated officers by ensuring timely promotions, which is essential for boosting morale,” he said.

Idris reiterated the chamber’s commitment to the successful commencement of the Badagry Deep Seaport project and called on all stakeholders to collaborate in resolving the lingering challenges.