The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy plans to spend N1 billion on vehicle purchases in 2024, according to LEADERSHIP. The ministry will also allocate N35 million for local and foreign travel.
Under the 2024 Appropriation Act signed by President Bola Tinubu, the ministry is set to spend N10 million on local travel and transport: training; N15 million on local travel and transport: other; and N10 million on international travel and transport: other.
Critics have labeled these allocations as a misplaced priority. Lucky Amiwero, president of the National Association of Managing Director of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), suggests the funds would be better spent on port rehabilitation, improving Nigeria’s competitiveness in international trade.
Frontline clearing agent Ikechukwu Anaba also criticized the N1 billion earmarked for vehicles, questioning the need for new vehicles when funds could be redirected to other priorities.
The debate over the ministry’s budget allocation raises concerns about resource management and the need for strategic investments to strengthen Nigeria’s port infrastructure and competitiveness.
