Nigeria’s maritime sector posted robust growth in the first quarter, with total cargo throughput reaching 32.38 million metric tonnes – an 11.6 percent rise from the same period a year earlier. The increase reflects higher trade volumes, stronger import‑export activity and improving port productivity nationwide.
Data from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) show that gross registered tonnage (GRT) for ocean‑going vessels climbed 19.5 percent to 46.75 million, underscoring a shift toward larger, more efficient ships. The NPA’s Q1 Operational Performance Review links the surge in vessel size to the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and expanding demand across the country’s terminals.
Outward cargo traffic led the performance surge, rising 23.7 percent to 14.13 million tonnes. Container exports were particularly notable, with laden container traffic jumping 67.6 percent to 102,803 TEUs, up from 61,332 TEUs a year earlier. The growth is attributed to better export logistics, enhanced terminal efficiency and deeper integration into regional and global supply chains.
Vehicle handling also expanded sharply, with units processed increasing 67 percent to 58,870 compared with 35,262 in the prior year. Transshipment activity surged 83.1 percent, signalling Nigeria’s growing role as a regional hub for West African cargo movement – a key objective of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
NPA Managing Director Dr Abubakar Dantsoho emphasized that the sector’s momentum hinges on continued reforms. Speaking at a Lagos industry forum, he called for a “paradigm shift” toward full utilisation of marine resources, stressing that efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability will determine which nations dominate future cargo flows under AfCFTA. He highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades, digitalisation efforts and institutional restructuring aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime logistics centre.
The federal government is reinforcing these reforms with a $1 billion overhaul of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, following a newly signed memorandum of understanding. The investment targets longstanding infrastructure gaps and seeks to boost competitiveness in a rapidly integrating African market.
Analysts note that the rising transshipment volumes suggest Nigeria is beginning to capture a larger share of intra‑regional cargo, a development that could translate into higher revenue streams and job creation across the logistics ecosystem. The sector’s performance also reflects broader economic confidence, as traders respond to streamlined procedures and improved port services.
Looking ahead, the NPA expects the momentum to continue as additional deep‑water terminals become operational and digital platforms streamline customs and clearance processes. Sustained growth will depend on maintaining terminal efficiency, expanding hinterland connectivity and ensuring that policy frameworks keep pace with the evolving trade environment.
The first‑quarter results position Nigeria’s maritime sector as a pivotal driver of economic growth and a critical gateway for African trade under AfCFTA, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become the continent’s premier port hub.
