LAGOS, May 11 — The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reported significant growth in the country’s maritime sector during the first quarter of 2026. This growth is attributed to increased cargo volumes, the deployment of larger vessels, and ongoing port reforms. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the NPA, informed reporters in Lagos on Sunday that the gross registered tonnage (GRT) of ocean-going ships rose by 19.5 percent, reaching 46.75 million. This increase reflects improved cargo efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports. Dantsoho emphasized that the surge is largely due to the deployment of bigger vessels servicing the newly operational Lekki Deep Sea Port and the expansion of intra-regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He stated, “Ports must evolve beyond old limits. Efficiency, speed, and reliability will determine who leads African trade.”
During the same period, total cargo throughput increased by 11.6 percent year-on-year, amounting to 32.38 million metric tonnes. Outbound cargo experienced a significant rise of 23.7 percent, totaling 14.13 million tonnes, while outbound laden containers surged by 67.6 percent to 102,803 TEUs. Additionally, vehicle traffic rose by 67 percent to 58,870 units, and transshipment containers increased by 83.1 percent, underscoring Nigeria’s growing role as a regional hub. Dantsoho remarked, “The time has come to fully utilize our marine resources. Ports can drive major economic growth if properly harnessed.”
This growth aligns with the Tinubu administration’s efforts to implement a series of reforms aimed at establishing Nigeria as Africa’s premier maritime gateway. The government has approved a US$1 billion upgrade of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, with a Memorandum of Understanding for these projects now in effect. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola confirmed that procurement processes are underway for similar upgrades at Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar, aiming for balanced development across the coastline. Oyetola also highlighted the introduction of a Port Community System and a National Single Window, initiatives designed to reduce delays, lower operating costs, and enhance transparency. Furthermore, he mentioned parallel investments in rail links, inland dry ports, barging services, and export corridors intended to alleviate congestion and expedite cargo evacuation.
According to the NPA, Nigeria has not experienced a piracy incident in over four years under the Deep Blue Programme, a record that enhances the sector’s attractiveness. Despite handling only about 25 percent of West Africa’s cargo, Nigeria accounts for approximately 60 percent of the region’s gross domestic product. Dantsoho cautioned that this disparity represents untapped potential, stating, “With sustained commitment, Nigeria’s port system will emerge as Africa’s leading maritime logistics hub.” The latest figures indicate that the combination of infrastructure upgrades, digitalization, and regulatory reforms is beginning to yield positive results, positioning the country’s ports for a more significant role in continental trade.
Comments are closed for this story.