Governor Otti Slams 19-Year Delay in Abia’s Dry Port Project
Governor Alex Otti has expressed deep frustration over the 19-year delay in the execution of the Isiala Ngwa Inland Dry Port (IDP) project in Abia State, originally conceived in 2006. Speaking at a strategic meeting with stakeholders, the Governor described the delay as a major economic setback and a clear indicator of failed implementation.
“The cheapest way to move goods is through rail. You can freight them and pay more, but that’s not sustainable for business,” Otti stated, lamenting the lack of standard-gauge rail links connecting the port to coastal seaports.
He called for federal government intervention to address the critical infrastructure deficits hampering the completion and functionality of the dry port.
Dry Port Stuck at 10% Completion, Says NSC Boss
Concessionaire Delays and Infrastructure Gaps Stall Progress
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, revealed that the IDP concessioned to Eastgate Container Terminal Limited for 30 years—is only 10% completed. He attributed the delay to unmet equity obligations and poor infrastructure, including lack of access roads, electricity, and water.
“This project can transform Abia into a logistics and trade hub, especially for Aba’s thriving SMEs and industrial clusters,” Dr. Ukeyima noted.
The IDP is seen as a key enabler of Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), potentially linking Aba’s export products—like textiles, leather, and agro-commodities—to a $3.4 trillion continental market. It also has potential for regional trade, serving landlocked countries like Chad and Niger.
NSC and Abia Government to Collaborate on Project Delivery
Governor Otti Commits to Site Clearance and Utilities
Dr. Ukeyima urged the Abia State Government to urgently:
Provide critical infrastructure like electricity, water, and roads
Set up a State Implementation Committee
Ensure concessionaire compliance
He reaffirmed the NSC’s commitment to offering technical and regulatory support to see the project through.
Governor Otti, in response, confirmed that the state had begun clearing the project site and providing utilities, building on the commitments made since 2019.
Dry Port Key to Southeast’s Economic Growth and Export Diversification
The meeting reaffirmed the IDP’s strategic role in positioning Abia and the Southeast as a logistics and export hub. By integrating with AfCFTA goals, the port could stimulate:
Job creation
Increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)
Reduced logistics costs
Boosted access to global markets for SMEs and industrial players
With renewed collaboration between state and federal authorities, stakeholders believe the long-delayed project could finally deliver on its promise of economic transformation for the region.
