Nigeria’s exports rise more than 25% in two years as port reforms take root

Nigeria’s export trade has grown by more than 25% in two years, with cocoa, cashew nuts and manufactured goods driving the increase. The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, said the rise reflects economic reforms and stronger port operations.

Dantsoho spoke at the Annual World Ports Conference in London, organised by the International Association of Ports and Harbours. He said government policies, partnerships with terminal operators and higher exports of agricultural and manufactured products supported the growth.

Ports revenue rises fourfold

Revenue generated by Nigerian ports has increased fourfold, Dantsoho said. He linked the performance to higher cargo volumes, improved operational efficiency, technology adoption, private-sector participation and stronger international partnerships.

He said Nigeria’s export expansion is no longer driven only by crude oil and gas. Agricultural commodities and manufactured goods are contributing more to international trade. Cocoa, cashew nuts and other agricultural raw materials are recording higher export volumes.

Dantsoho credited collaboration between the NPA and major terminal operators, particularly APM Terminals. He said Nigeria’s large population, expanding manufacturing sector and strategic location give it a competitive advantage over other West and Central African economies.

Export terminals target delays

The NPA has established four Export Processing Terminals to simplify export procedures and address longstanding challenges facing exporters. The facilities operate through partnerships involving terminal operators, the Nigeria Customs Service and other government agencies.

The terminals allow exporters to complete documentation, inspections and cargo processing before shipments reach the ports. The NPA expects this to reduce delays, improve compliance with international standards and make Nigerian products more competitive abroad. Dantsoho said the reforms would help Nigeria maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Apapa upgrade and digital systems

Dantsoho said two Nigerian ports featured among the world’s top 20 in a recent World Bank ranking. He did not identify the ports or specify the ranking category.

He said Nigeria is strengthening maritime cooperation with Morocco and South Africa to improve trade connectivity and facilitate the movement of goods across Africa.

The Federal Government is pursuing a $1 billion investment to expand and modernise port infrastructure in Apapa, Lagos. Dantsoho said the project would require substantial private-sector investment and technical expertise.

The NPA is also working 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.

For Nigerian exporters, the reforms could mean faster cargo processing, lower logistics costs and improved access to international markets. The NPA has also warned that rising cyberattacks on maritime infrastructure could disrupt cargo movement, threaten international trade and inflict significant economic losses on Nigeria and other African countries. Dantsoho raised the concern at the African Ports Conference in Casablanca, Morocco, where he called for stronger cybersecurity measures, regional intelligence sharing and coordinated digital standards across African ports.