Nigeria’s Ports Record Robust Q1 Growth

As Larger Vessels, Vehicle Traffic Drive Surge

…Cargo Throughput Rises To 32.38m Tons; GRT Hits 46.75m Amid AfCFTA Reforms

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

Nigeria’s maritime sector sustained its growth momentum in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels climbing 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million. The surge reflects the increasing dominance of larger-capacity ships across the nation’s ports, underscoring ongoing reforms aimed at positioning Nigeria as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to the Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the rise in vessel tonnage signals improved cargo-carrying efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports. The report highlighted the strategic shift toward larger and more efficient vessels, driven partly by the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and expanding trade demand.

This strong performance comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to modernise port infrastructure, enhance cargo handling efficiency, and capture a larger share of regional cargo flows under AfCFTA. NPA Managing Director, Abubakar Dantsoho, recently emphasised that Nigeria’s ports must evolve beyond traditional limitations to compete effectively in a rapidly integrating African market. Speaking at an industry forum in Lagos, he noted that efficiency, speed, innovation, and reliability will determine which countries dominate cargo flows in the new continental trade environment.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” Dantsoho said.

Cargo throughput excluding crude oil terminals also posted strong growth, rising 11.6 per cent year-on-year to 32.38 million metric tons, compared to 29.02 million metric tons in Q1 2025. The NPA attributed this to rising trade volumes, stronger import and export activities, improved port productivity, and sustained demand for port services.

Outward cargo traffic surged by 23.7 per cent to 14.13 million metric tons, reflecting stronger export competitiveness and deeper integration into regional and global supply chains. Outward laden container traffic recorded exceptional growth of 67.6 per cent, increasing from 61,332 TEUs in Q1 2025 to 102,803 TEUs in Q1 2026, a performance linked to improved export logistics and terminal efficiency. Vehicle traffic also emerged as a major growth driver, with total units handled rising sharply by 67 per cent to 58,870, compared to 35,262 units last year.

Transshipment container activity grew by 83.1 per cent, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing relevance within regional maritime trade and logistics networks. Analysts noted that this increase is particularly significant, as it suggests Nigeria is beginning to attract more regional cargo movement within West Africa—a critical objective as AfCFTA gradually dismantles trade barriers across the continent.

Reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration have centred on infrastructure upgrades, digitalisation, and institutional restructuring to transform Nigeria into a leading maritime logistics hub. A major component is the $1 billion rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, addressing longstanding infrastructure deficiencies. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed that procurement processes are underway for upgrades in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar ports to ensure balanced development nationwide.

Beyond physical upgrades, the government is driving an aggressive digitalisation agenda through the Port Community System and National Single Window platform to streamline cargo clearance, reduce delays, and improve transparency. Stakeholders believe these initiatives could significantly lower the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports while improving turnaround time and operational efficiency. Complementary investments in rail integration, inland dry ports, barging operations, and export corridors are also helping to ease congestion and improve cargo evacuation.

Security improvements have further strengthened confidence in the sector. Nigeria has now recorded over four years without piracy incidents, a milestone attributed to the Deep Blue Programme and enhanced maritime surveillance systems.

The NPA stressed that Q1 performance demonstrates the sector’s evolution into a more cargo-intensive and commercially dynamic ecosystem capable of supporting economic growth, trade facilitation, and regional connectivity. However, Dantsoho acknowledged that Nigeria still handles only about 25 per cent of West Africa’s cargo traffic despite accounting for more than 60 per cent of the region’s GDP, stressing the need to sustain reforms to fully optimise maritime potential.

“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he assured.