Lawmakers Urge Nigerian Government To Establish Enugu Inland Dry Port

The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Government to consider the establishment of an Inland Dry Port at Emene, Enugu State, as matter of urgency, and as a means of increasing the revenue and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Nigeria.

This followed the adoption of a motion by the member representing Enugu East/ Isi-uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, Hon Paul Nnamchi, and 14 others at plenary.

The House also mandated its
Committee on Ports and Harbours to liaise with the Management of Nigeria Ports Authority ( NPA) to come up with a workable modality that will ensure speedy establishment of the inland port as soon as possible.

Hon. Nnamchi, in his lead debate, stated that the establishment of an inland dry port at Emene, Enugu, will enhance trade, agricultural investments and economic cooperation in the South East geo-political zone.

“Currently, the lack of a major inland port in Enugu, the former eastern capital of Nigeria, is hindering the region’s potentials for efficient and cost-effective transportation of goods and speedy delivery of services.” He said.

The member also noted that the undue bureaucratic delays in clearing and forwarding processes in major ports can be reduced with the establishment of an Inland Dry Port, in Emene, due to its vast inter-state trade connectivity and seamless transport logistics

“Emene has an existing infrastructure, such as Customs and Immigration offices, nearness to Nigerian Army (82 Division), Airforce base, Transportation hubs, Oil and Military establishments, which contribute significantly to the economic and strategic development of the area.

Emene is very strategic in fostering economic growth, industrial development, and regional connectivity and enjoys proximity to the Southern and Northern Regions.

“The abundance and availability of solid minerals in Enugu and some parts of South Eastern Nigeria, like Coal, limestone, lead/Zinc and abundant agricultural produce among others, can increase revenue and create employment opportunities for the government through the inland dry port.”

The House mandated the Committees on Ports and Harbours and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance with the resolution and report back to it within three weeks for further legislative actions.

Olusola Akintonde