Nigeria is embarking on an ambitious overhaul of its port infrastructure and maritime sector in a bid to reclaim lost cargo revenue, enhance trade efficiency, and position itself as West Africa’s leading transshipment hub.
On Thursday, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced a series of reforms aimed at deepening Nigeria’s ports, cutting bureaucracy, and enhancing operational efficiency. These upgrades, which include dredging key ports to accommodate larger vessels and introducing digital clearance systems, are expected to generate over 20,000 jobs and reverse the shift of cargo traffic to competing ports in Togo and Benin.
“We are increasing the draft of our ports from 12–13 meters to 16–17 meters, allowing larger vessels to dock and redirecting revenue currently lost to neighbouring ports in Tema, Lomé, and Cotonou,” said Oyetola during a press briefing in Abuja.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a 48-month modernization project for Lagos’ Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports, with similar enhancements planned for the eastern ports. To improve efficiency and stop corruption, the number of government agencies operating at the ports will be reduced from 14 to seven.
A National Single Window (NSW) platform is set to launch in 2025, streamlining cargo clearance and eliminating unnecessary delays. Additionally, the Nigeria Customs Service is deploying scanners, a vessel tracking system, an e-regulatory process portal, and an international cargo tracking note to enhance transparency, boost revenue, and strengthen security. A new truck call-up system will also be implemented to reduce congestion.
A Port Community System (PCS) [a centralized digital platform for exporters] will further automate processes, improving trade efficiency.
Beyond port modernization, the government is leveraging Nigeria’s maritime potential to increase exports and attract investment. The ministry is collaborating with the United States to sustain shrimp exports, following Nigeria’s 100% compliance with turtle conservation protocols.
Drawing inspiration from Morocco, discussions to establish fish harbours and terminals through public-private partnerships (PPPs) are going on. The government is also expanding inland dry ports in Kano, Kaduna, and Abia, aimed at reducing Lagos port congestion and improving regional trade.
Additionally, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is expected to enhance “blue tourism” while improving market access for fishing communities.
Nigeria’s maritime security initiatives have been successful, with the country achieving a three-year streak of zero piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea (a milestone credited to the Deep Blue Sea Surveillance Initiative). This achievement has strengthened Nigeria’s confidence in its bid for a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in 2025.
Oyetola confirmed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the bid, with preparations already underway.
Another landmark achievement is the approval of 16,300 square kilometers of additional maritime territory, expanding Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)—a move that enhances economic potential and secures more marine resources.
To support local shipping operators, the government is finalizing arrangements to disburse the $350 million Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF). This initiative aims to help indigenous shipowners acquire new vessels and expand their fleet capacity.
Transparency remains a priority in fund disbursement, hence the need to involve development banks in managing the process.
Further strengthening Nigeria’s position in regional maritime trade, the country is working with the Maritime Organization of Central and West Africa (MOWCA) to establish a Regional Maritime Development Bank which is expected to finance maritime projects and boost trade connectivity across West and Central Africa.
These huge reforms mark a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s maritime sector into a globally competitive industry. With enhanced port infrastructure, improved trade processes, expanded maritime security, and strengthened financing mechanisms, the country is well-positioned to drive economic growth, increase government revenue, and create employment opportunities.
As Nigeria modernizes its ports and strengthens its international maritime standing, these initiatives signal a bold new era for the nation’s blue economy—one that prioritizes efficiency, transparency, and global competitiveness.
