Tensions Rise In House Of Representatives Over Oyetola’s Claims Of Federal Government Error In Cargo Project Deal

Tensions Rise In House Of Representatives Over Oyetola’s Claims Of Federal Government Error In Cargo Project Deal
A representative of Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Blue and Marine Economy, has alleged that a multi-billion-dollar cargo tracking agreement with the federal government is flawed. Babatunde Sule, a director in the ministry, made this claim during a House of Representatives hearing on Monday, which investigated delays in the implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Notes (ICTN) project.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Sule’s statements came as the House committee examined the delays, which experts estimate are costing the country $500 million monthly. He explained that the process approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) was fundamentally flawed.

The hearing was prompted by concerns over the non-implementation of the contract awarded in March 2023 to a consortium led by Antaser Nigeria Limited for tracking all imports and exports, including crude oil. However, reports indicate that some officials in the Bola Tinubu administration are attempting to replace this consortium under the guise of a public-private partnership, with involvement from the new Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, Jobson Ewaleifoh.

Despite acknowledging the contract’s approval by the FEC, Sule later stated that it was an error. He noted, “The process was even faulty ab initio,” leading to audible jeers from lawmakers. Sule also mentioned that the contract involved five companies, four of which signed agreements, while the fifth did not, contributing to the delays.

Lawmakers expressed frustration with Sule’s responses, questioning his ability to adequately represent the minister. Kabir Maipalace, a committee member, criticized the absence of both the minister and the permanent secretary, suggesting that Sule lacked sufficient knowledge on the issue.

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