By Emmanuel Ogoigbe
Efforts to reposition the Warri Port as a major driver of economic growth in Nigeria’s South-South region received a boost on Thursday as operators at the facility urged local and international investors to take advantage of its growing maritime and logistics capabilities.
The call came during an unscheduled visit by members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, to Julius Berger Services Nigeria Limited’s Multipurpose Terminal (Terminal C) at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) complex in Warri, Delta State. The visit afforded journalists the opportunity to assess activities at the facility and interact with management and operational staff.
Officials of Julius Berger Services Nigeria Limited said the port possesses the infrastructure, security, and operational capacity needed to support increased trade, industrial activities, and regional commerce, describing it as an underutilized asset with enormous investment potential.
Speaking during the facility tour, Julius Berger’s representative in charge of Multipurpose Vessels, Mr. Rayon Baldom, said the terminal is actively handling cargo and receiving vessels, contrary to widespread misconceptions about the port’s status.
According to him, the facility continues to attract business from key sectors, particularly the oil and gas industry, while also providing general cargo handling, container logistics, warehousing, oversized cargo logistics, and other maritime support services.
He disclosed that the terminal received two vessels in the previous week and currently has another vessel being serviced, adding that cargo clearance operations are usually completed within 48 hours.
Baldom noted that while global economic uncertainties, foreign exchange fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions in parts of the world have affected maritime trade, the strategic location of Warri Port gives it a unique advantage in serving the South-South and South-East regions.
Also speaking, Head of Clearing at Julius Berger Terminal, Mr. Olise Fidelis, assured investors and traders of comprehensive security arrangements at the facility, emphasizing that all cargoes are closely monitored under the supervision of relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service.
He added that the terminal has maintained an impressive safety record, with zero accident incidents recorded due to strict adherence to operational and safety standards.
Stressing the broader economic significance of the port, Mr. Kubo Akpevwe described Warri Port as a critical gateway capable of stimulating trade, attracting investment, and reducing logistics bottlenecks for businesses operating within the Niger Delta and beyond.
He commended the Nigeria Customs Service, Edo/Delta Area Command, for its support in facilitating seamless trade operations and called for increased awareness among importers, exporters, and maritime stakeholders about the opportunities available at the facility.
According to him, many businesses are yet to fully appreciate the port’s capacity and strategic importance despite its modern infrastructure and efficient services.
Terminal Operations Manager, Mr. Inusa Zuberu, also reaffirmed that the port is fully active and equipped to accommodate increased cargo volumes and expanded commercial activities.
He urged investors, importers, exporters, and logistics operators seeking efficient maritime solutions to consider Warri Port as a viable destination for trade and investment.
The visit emphasized ongoing efforts by operators to reposition Warri Port as a leading maritime hub capable of driving economic growth, creating business opportunities, and strengthening regional commerce across the Niger Delta and beyond.
