By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Federal Government has awarded the contract for the reconstruction and dredging of the dilapidated Escravos Channel at Warri Port in Delta State as part of efforts to revive the Eastern Ports and improve maritime activities in the region.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said the project is one of several initiatives under its Eastern Ports modernisation programme aimed at improving infrastructure and restoring the ports to full operational capacity.
The General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communication of the NPA, Mr. Ikechukwu Oyenmakara, confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday, disclosing that the reconstruction of the Escravos Channel was among the projects recently awarded to China Harbour Engineering.
He said the rehabilitation programme covers about six different projects across the Eastern Ports.
“The project is part of the Eastern Ports modernization projects awarded to China Harbour Engineering recently. There are about six different projects under the Eastern Ports modernization programme,” Oyenmakara stated.
The development is expected to address one of the major challenges confronting vessels operating through Warri Port, where the shallow draught of the Escravos Channel has repeatedly affected navigation.
In recent years, vessels calling at the port have faced difficulties navigating the channel, with some ships reportedly running aground due to inadequate water depth.
The recurring incidents have also raised concerns among local ship pilots, who have warned that the condition of the channel is making navigation increasingly difficult and exposing vessels and their crews to avoidable risks.
The reconstruction and dredging of the channel is therefore expected to improve navigational safety, facilitate the movement of larger vessels and strengthen the capacity of Warri Port to handle increased maritime traffic.
The project is part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to revitalise the Eastern Ports and unlock their potential as key gateways for trade and economic development in the country.
