EU Delegation Eyes Waterway Investment in Kogi, Seeks 50 Hectares for Operational Base

By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja — September 11, 2026

The European Union has expressed interest in investing in water transportation in Kogi State, with its delegation seeking 50 hectares of land for the establishment of an operational base for a proposed Lagos–Ikorodu–Ajaokuta waterway project.

The delegation, led by Mr. Massimo De Luca, made the disclosure on Friday when it paid an investment visit to the Kogi State Government in Lokoja.

Receiving the delegation on behalf of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, welcomed the proposed investment and assured the team of the state government’s readiness to partner with credible investors seeking to contribute to Kogi’s economic development.

Mr. De Luca said the proposed water transportation project was designed to provide an alternative channel for the movement of bulk goods between Lagos and Kogi, thereby reducing pressure on Nigeria’s road network.

According to him, the project would involve SeaLink and other local and international financial partners, including the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank) and European financial institutions.

He added that other major companies could join the initiative as the project expands and its commercial potential becomes fully established.

A major request presented by the delegation was the allocation of 50 hectares of land in Kogi State, with the necessary Certificate of Occupancy, to serve as the company’s operational base for the proposed waterway investment.

Responding, Deputy Governor Salifu said the state government viewed the proposal as a potentially significant investment that could strengthen Kogi’s position as a strategic transportation and logistics hub.

He, however, stressed that the proposal would be subjected to the appropriate government procedures and consultations, including consideration by the Kogi State Economic Council, before any final decision is reached.

Comrade Salifu assured the delegation that he would present the request for the 50-hectare operational base to Governor Ododo for consideration.

He further assured the investors that the government would communicate its official position after the necessary consultations and due process.

The proposed investment, if approved, could open a new chapter in Kogi’s waterways development while creating an additional logistics corridor for the movement of goods into and out of the state.