Nigerian authority confident of dredging works

Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has expressed optimism that the long-awaited dredging of the Escravos Bar will soon begin.

The Sun Nigeria reports works are necessary to make the seaport commercially viable as large vessels and other ocean-going barges are being prevented from entering Warri port.

NPA Managing Director Hadiza Bala-Usman said the NPA board had concluded feasibility studies on the dredging and was waiting for ministerial approval, which she hoped would come within three months.

“We have briefed the stakeholders on the efforts that the authority has made in the provision of tugboats, provision of pilot cutters, and also our intention to commence the dredging within the Escravos Bar,” said Ms Usman.

“We have reached an advanced stage in our procurement process to enable us to provide the dredging works and the navigational aid for Escravos Bar.

 “This is why we are primarily here to … ensure that traffic comes to Delta ports and all the eastern ports of the country.”