The Federal Government has intensified efforts to reposition Nigeria’s port system in a strategic push to dominate intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed this while addressing industry stakeholders in Lagos, stressing that port modernisation has become an economic necessity in an increasingly competitive continental market.
He noted that with AfCFTA reducing trade barriers across Africa, countries with efficient, technology-driven ports would attract greater cargo traffic and investment.
“Nigeria’s geographical advantage alone is no longer sufficient,” Dantsoho said. “Efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability will define leadership in this new era.”
He explained that the NPA’s reform agenda is focused on addressing long-standing structural bottlenecks that have weakened the competitiveness of the nation’s ports.
According to him, ongoing infrastructure upgrades at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports are aimed at boosting berth productivity, expanding capacity and reducing vessel turnaround time.
Dantsoho also highlighted the growing importance of deep seaports, particularly Lekki Port, in transforming the maritime sector by accommodating larger vessels and increasing cargo throughput.
Industry stakeholders say the development is expected to ease congestion at existing ports while positioning Nigeria to handle increased trade volumes under AfCFTA.
On digital transformation, the NPA boss said the authority is accelerating the deployment of the Port Community System (PCS) and the Federal Government’s National Single Window initiative to streamline operations.
He explained that both platforms would integrate port stakeholders, reduce manual processes and improve transparency.
Experts believe full implementation could significantly cut cargo clearance time and lower the cost of doing business.
Dantsoho added that operational reforms are also being implemented to reduce cargo dwell time and improve service delivery across terminals.
He further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to strengthen multimodal connectivity through rail integration, inland dry ports, barging operations and dedicated export corridors to facilitate seamless cargo evacuation.
He warned that without efficient hinterland connectivity, gains recorded at the ports may not be sustainable.
He said the NPA is also deepening collaboration with private investors and global operators to attract the level of investment required to meet international standards.
Analysts say the reforms could result in faster port operations, reduced logistics costs, increased trade volumes and improved government revenue, while boosting Nigeria’s non-oil export capacity.
Dantsoho expressed optimism that the ongoing transformation would position Nigeria as the preferred maritime gateway in West Africa.
