Why Only 10 Of Over 80 Indigenous Barge Operators Remain Operational

Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria - August 11, 2026: After traffic peaked in Apapa, the number of local barge operators surged to about 80. 

President Ahmed Bola Tinubu

Now, Harboursandport.com reports that fewer than 10 remain active as stakeholders disagree on what caused this sharp decline. 

Some blame foreign competition, while others point to the easing of the Apapa gridlock.

Previously, the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria, BOAN have asked the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC for help. They argued that foreign companies were taking jobs meant exclusively for Nigerians.

At a Lagos event recently, BOAN member Bola Muse stated that fewer than 10 of their 80-plus members still operate. 

She blamed shipping lines and terminal operators for favouring foreign companies.

However, an anonymous NIMASA official told Harboursandport.com a different story. The official claimed BOAN members use substandard barges, which hurts their business.

Other stakeholders believe government agencies should help local operators upgrade their equipment to meet acceptable standards if is true that their crafts are substandard. 

They argue that supporting local businesses will boost the economy and create jobs for Nigerian youths during this tough economic time.