The Federal Government has awarded a contract for the dredging and reconstruction of the Escravos Channel and its damaged breakwaters as part of efforts to rehabilitate the Eastern ports, particularly Warri Port in Delta State.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) confirmed the development, saying the project is among about six projects under its Eastern Ports modernisation programme. The projects were recently awarded to China Harbour Engineering Company.
NPA General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ikechukwu Oyenmakara, said the Escravos Channel works are part of the broader rehabilitation programme for the Eastern ports.
The development follows years of concerns over the condition of the channel, where shallow water and damaged breakwaters have affected navigation and contributed to vessels running aground. In 2023, reports indicated that several vessels had run aground in the channel, with maritime stakeholders calling for urgent dredging and breakwater repairs.
The Federal Executive Council had in June 2026 also approved ₦112.85 billion for the capital and maintenance dredging of the Escravos Channel under a public-private partnership involving the NPA and private-sector operators. The project is expected to improve navigation, remove channel obstructions and strengthen maritime safety.
The rehabilitation is expected to improve vessel access to Warri Port, reduce navigation risks and support increased maritime and commercial activity in the Eastern region.
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