The Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) has stated that it cannot fully operate due to the poor condition of the Calabar-Itu highway.
The highway’s inadequate condition has severely disrupted and delayed the transportation of goods, lengthening the time it takes for exporters to deliver products from the port to their final destinations.
During collaboration meeting with Cross River State’s Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Abigail Duke Orok, Calabar Port Manager, Mr. Ekine Ibiri Alex highlighted the issue.
He noted that the Calabar Port serves as a crucial evacuation route for Nigeria’s Eastern and Northern regions and urged the relevant authorities to implement timely measures to improve the port’s efficiency.
Alex proposed convening a larger meeting with stakeholders from relevant sectors to create a detailed plan for enhancing port operations.
He emphasised that with proper collaboration and government backing, the Calabar Port could significantly contribute to enhancing economic activities in Cross River State and beyond.
In her remarks, Mrs Orok stressed the importance of working closely with the Port Authority to tackle the challenges that have impeded shipping activities at the Calabar Port.
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