Nigeria targets Africa’s Maritime Logistics Hub Under AfCFTA, says NPA MD, Dantsoho

Nigeria has set its sights on becoming the maritime logistics hub for sustainable port services in Africa, particularly under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), made this known at the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) maritime and logistics sector event in Lagos on Tuesday.

According to Dantsoho, who was represented by Mr. Sheyi Iyawe, General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Planning, NPA, the AfCFTA is viewed by many as a threat to Nigerian ports due to its aim of collapsing all trade barriers within the continent.

He, however, said for a seaport to maintain its market position, it must improve its competitive strategy to stay ahead of rival ports.

Dantsoho highlighted the importance of strong institutions, infrastructure, and macroeconomic environment in driving seaport competitiveness.

He said the NPA’s efforts to improve ports competitiveness include port modernization projects, national single window, automation of operations, truck e-call up system, and development of several deep seaports.

The President of the NBCC, Mr. Ray Atelly, called for port efficiency and competitiveness to drive Nigeria’s economic growth and regional leadership.

He noted that Nigeria’s strategic location along the Gulf of Guinea presents a unique opportunity to position its ports as the preferred gateway for trade in West Africa.

Atelly called for strong collaboration between government, regulatory agencies, port operators, and private sector players to establish Nigeria as a maritime powerhouse.

The President of the NBCC said investing in innovation and strategic policy measures will ensure that Nigerian ports remain competitive and drive economic integration across Africa.

In his remarks, Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), emphasized the need to upgrade Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne ports to enhance cargo handling, reduce turnaround times, and position Nigeria’s ports as regional trade hubs.

He also highlighted the importance of digital transformations through integrated port community systems and a single-window clearance mechanism to streamline processes, improve transparency, and boost trade efficiency.