The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has commenced the process of reviving the Oguta River Port in Imo State, with plans to partner private investors to boost economic growth in the South East region.
NIWA’s Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, disclosed this during a meeting with the Technical Team of the Orashi Special Energy Free Trade Zone, led by Dr. Chioma Nwachukwu, in Abuja.
The Oguta River Port is crucial to the development of the South East region and aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through the Federal Ministry of Marine Economy.
The port’s revitalisation aims to restore its economic relevance, enhance trade, transportation, and connectivity in the region, and attract investments, promote industrial activities, and generate employment opportunities.
NIWA is open to a public-private partnership for the quick revitalisation of the port facility. Nwachukwu expressed her company’s readiness to work with NIWA to actualise the port’s potential.
This partnership is expected to open up new economic frontiers for the South East, aligning with the federal government’s push to diversify transportation infrastructure and enhance trade competitiveness.