The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, collaboration, and responsible governance, while firmly dismissing claims that the Ministry under him has awarded multibillion-naira contracts for the Baro Inland Port in Niger State.
This clarification follows the participation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Ad-hoc Committee on National Stakeholders Engagement on the Challenges and Prospects of the Baro Inland Port.
The engagement, which took place on Tuesday, brought together government and industry stakeholders to evaluate the status and future potential of the Baro Port project. The Ministry, formally invited to the session, was duly represented — highlighting its ongoing commitment to accountability and open collaboration with all arms of government.
In response to media reports suggesting that new contracts were awarded under the current administration, the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, categorically refuted such claims.
“No multibillion-naira contract has been awarded by His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola in connection with the Baro Port project,” Akinola stated. “The project is not new. It was conceived, planned, and initiated under previous administrations. Any reports to the contrary are inaccurate and should be regarded as misinformation.”
Akinola stressed that the Ministry remains focused on prudent management of public resources and will not be distracted by unfounded narratives.
He added that the Ministry welcomes the oversight function of the National Assembly and is ready to cooperate fully by providing any relevant documentation required to aid transparency and legislative scrutiny.
“The Minister remains committed to revitalising Nigeria’s inland waterway infrastructure through open, fact-based engagement with all stakeholders,” Akinola said. “We urge the public, particularly the media, to be guided by facts and accuracy in their reportage, as this is essential to fostering national development and cohesion.”
The Ministry reiterated its mission to drive sustainable development in the marine and blue economy sector, assuring Nigerians of continued dedication to integrity, accountability, and progress.
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