Nigeria's export trade has grown by more than 25% over the past two years, driven by government reforms and increased shipments of agricultural and manufactured goods, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The NPA also reported that port revenue has quadrupled, reflecting higher cargo volumes and improved operational efficiency.
NPA Chief Details Growth at Global Ports Conference
The Managing Director of the NPA, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed these figures at the Annual World Ports Conference in London, organised by the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH). He attributed the improvement to government policies, stronger partnerships with terminal operators, and increased exports of agricultural and manufactured products.
According to Dantsoho, Nigeria's export expansion is no longer driven solely by crude oil and gas, as agricultural commodities and manufactured goods increasingly contribute to international trade. He identified cocoa, cashew nuts, and other agricultural raw materials among products recording higher export volumes.
New Export Processing Terminals to Cut Delays
The NPA has established four Export Processing Terminals to simplify export procedures and address longstanding challenges affecting Nigerian exporters. The facilities operate through partnerships involving terminal operators, the Nigeria Customs Service, and other relevant government agencies.
According to Dantsoho, the terminals allow exporters to complete necessary documentation, inspections, and cargo processing before shipments reach the ports. This arrangement is expected to reduce delays, improve compliance with international standards, and make Nigerian products more competitive abroad. He added that the reforms would help Nigeria maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Port Revenue Quadruples and Global Ranking Improves
The NPA managing director revealed that revenue generated across Nigerian ports had increased fourfold following improvements in cargo handling and operational efficiency. He attributed the performance to technology adoption, private-sector participation, and stronger international partnerships.
Dantsoho also claimed that two Nigerian ports featured among the world's top 20 in a recent World Bank ranking, although he did not identify the ports or specify the ranking category. He said Nigeria was strengthening maritime cooperation with Morocco and South Africa to improve trade connectivity and facilitate the movement of goods across Africa.
Planned $1 Billion Apapa Port Upgrade
Looking ahead, Dantsoho disclosed that the Federal Government was pursuing a $1 billion investment to expand and modernise port infrastructure in Apapa, Lagos. He explained that the project would require substantial private-sector investment and technical expertise.
The NPA is also collaborating with international technology partners to digitise port operations. These include a Singapore-based firm involved in developing a single-window system and an Abu Dhabi-based company supporting a port community system.
Dantsoho expressed confidence that sustained investment, digitalisation, and cooperation with private operators would further strengthen Nigeria's maritime competitiveness. For Nigerian exporters, the reforms could translate into faster cargo processing, lower logistics costs, and improved access to international markets.
