Warri Port Gains Momentum Amid NPA’s Decongestion Drive

BY GBOGBOWA GBOWA

Warri Port has emerged as a focal point of Nigeria’s maritime sector since November 2025, recording improved vessel traffic and faster turnaround times under reforms spearheaded by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

The development comes amid ongoing debates over the agency’s strategy to ease congestion in Lagos ports by redirecting cargo flows to Delta Ports. Available local reports highlight a marked reduction in vessel turnaround times at Warri and Koko, with tighter scheduling and coordinated berthing credited for the gains.

This is even as AIS tracking data confirms steady vessel arrivals and departures, underscoring that the port’s activity is sustained rather than sporadic. Cargo throughput has diversified, with general cargo and offshore support vessels increasingly routed through Warri.

The NPA has framed the Warri initiative as part of its “blue economy” agenda, aimed at redistributing traffic away from Lagos. However, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu has publicly questioned the approach, arguing that congestion in Lagos stems more from infrastructure bottlenecks than port location. The disagreement has amplified Warri’s profile, drawing national attention to its role in Nigeria’s maritime map.

It will be recalled that Nigeria’s League of Maritime Editors, has challenged Governor Sanwo-Olu’s position as myopic and irreverent, and urged the administration to show leadership and statesmanship in both his utterances and dispositions to the growth of the national economy.

Stakeholders suggest that Warri’s gains could erode Lagos congestion if sustained, positioning Delta Ports as credible complements to Apapa and Tin Can. Analysts caution, however, that long term success will depend on dredging, navigational aids, and improved road and rail links to ensure efficient cargo evacuation.

While hard throughput figures are yet to be formally made available, the operational reset at Warri Port signals a shift in Nigeria’s port dynamics. If backed by continued investment and policy alignment, Warri could consolidate its role as a strategic alternative to Lagos, reshaping cargo distribution across the country.