Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, recently shared insights into the massive $1 billion port modernisation programme. As the authority works to cement Nigeria’s status as the premier maritime hub for West and Central Africa, the focus remains on upgrading aging infrastructure and enhancing operational efficiency. According to the maritime boss, this comprehensive initiative is set to overhaul aging quay walls, deepen vital shipping channels, and fully automate terminal systems nationwide.
Physical construction for this ambitious modernisation drive is slated to officially begin by the end of the third quarter of 2026. Right now, the focus is on wrapping up final preparations, including detailed consultations with host communities to ensure they are ready for the influx of heavy machinery and civil works. Once these upgrades are fully integrated, the authority anticipates a significant boost in efficiency, projecting a 50 percent reduction in vessel turnaround times.
Beyond simple construction, the vision for the ports involves a broader suite of upgrades. This includes a robust green port agenda, the acquisition of state-of-the-art tugboats and pilot cutters, and the installation of advanced vessel traffic service technology to secure the nation’s territorial waters. Funding for this $1 billion project is already secured, with the financial structuring completed alongside international lending partners.
Addressing the persistent congestion around Lagos ports, the authority is pushing ahead with a major overhaul of the electronic call-up system. By tightening security and removing illegal human interference, the goal is to stop the circulation of fraudulent call-up slips that have historically worsened traffic. Furthermore, the expansion of barge operations now moves over 30 percent of containerised cargo via waterways, while increased collaboration with the railway corporation has seen regular freight services link the Lagos Port Complex directly to dry ports in Kano and Kaduna.
Digitalisation remains the backbone of the authority’s trade facilitation efforts. The rapid deployment of the port community system is designed to plug seamlessly into the national single window project. By unifying customs clearance, agency inspections, and billing, the authority aims to slash cargo dwell time from weeks to under 48 hours. This shift toward predictability and efficiency is considered vital to remaining competitive against neighbouring countries that are also investing heavily in their maritime capabilities.
Looking ahead, the strategy for attracting more traffic involves an aggressive deep-dredging campaign. By achieving channel depths of up to 16.5 metres, Nigeria is preparing to welcome modern mega-container vessels that were previously unable to berth. Following the success of the Lekki Deep Seaport, there is also a concerted effort to support new deep seaport projects in Badagry, Cross River, and Ondo States.
Regarding terminal concessions, the authority is taking a measured, transparent approach to contract renewals. While the preference is to work with current operators who meet strict operational and investment benchmarks, the door remains open to competitive bidding from reputable international investors if existing agreements fail to deliver on productivity targets. Meanwhile, the special task force assigned to the Apapa corridor continues to make progress. More than 1,500 illegally parked trucks and unauthorised checkpoints have been dismantled, while digital surveillance has been deployed to monitor routes in real time and prevent the return of racketeering.
