Vehicle Imports Surge 67% as NPA Reports Strong Q1 2026 Growth
By Aboki Forex —
The Nigerian Ports Authority has reported a sharp 67 per cent increase in the number of vehicles handled at the nation's ports in the first quarter of 2026. Total vehicle units rose to 58,870 from 35,262 recorded in the same period last year.
The NPA disclosed this in its Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday. The authority said Nigeria's maritime sector recorded strong operational growth during the period.
Gross Registered Tonnage for ocean-going vessels climbed by 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million tonnes. The NPA attributed this to the increasing dominance of larger-capacity ships across the nation's ports. It added that ongoing reforms under the African Continental Free Trade Area are positioning Nigeria as a regional trade hub.
“Vehicle traffic also emerged as a major growth area, with total vehicle units handled rising sharply by 67 per cent to 58,870 units during the quarter, compared to 35,262 units in the same period last year,” the NPA said.
The authority noted that the rise in vessel tonnage reflects improved cargo-carrying efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports.