The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has stated that the Inland Dry Ports in the state, upon completion, will facilitate cross-border trade and contribute to the increase of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
Zulum made this declaration during a visit with concessioners to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Headquarters in Lagos State on Wednesday.
He assured the NSC of his government’s commitment to expediting the establishment of an inland dry port in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
He emphasized that the creation of the Inland Dry Port in Maiduguri will bring various opportunities for the Federal Government and the people of Borno.
Zulum emphasized, “The completion of the dry ports will lead to the generation of employment, which will help in removing numerous young individuals from the streets; this is of utmost importance.
“The establishment of the IDP will improve cross-border trade and foster better relations with our neighboring countries.
“The IDP will not only bolster the nation’s economy but also contribute to an increase in the nation’s GDP.”
Highlighting that the IDP would aid in diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil, Zulum stated, “We are looking to steer away from a mono-economy, centered on oil, by exploring other opportunities. I believe Nigeria’s future is bright.”
He praised the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, for the efforts made in rehabilitating rail lines nationwide.
Zulum also commended Tinubu’s initiatives in revamping the road infrastructure, making it feasible for thousands of trucks to access Maiduguri daily.
“The development of the road network will expedite the establishment of the IDP in the absence of rail,” he explained, noting the presence of an efficient and effective road transportation system.
In his earlier remarks, the Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr. Pius Akutah, emphasized the need for Borno State to establish an IDP given its positioning along the borders of three West African countries – Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
He mentioned that Nigeria had engaged in international trade with African nations under the African Continental Free Trade Zone Agreement, enabling the country to embrace a unified market with the entire African continent.
Expressing confidence in the governor’s capability to deliver the IDP project within six months, Akutah recognized Zulum’s consistent efforts and the critical infrastructure already in place at the transit park, which he described as remarkable.
“It is now crucial for both parties to consider the political determination brought by the governor to the table and swiftly align themselves.
“This venture requires collaboration between the public and private sectors, with the private sector taking the lead in its operations.
“Both entities should collaborate to streamline the process and reach a mutual agreement promptly, allowing the governor to achieve the rapid establishment of the IDP,” he reiterated.
He mentioned that once operational, the Maiduguri IDP is projected to handle over 10,000 containers daily, with the Borno dry port currently at five percent completion.
NAN