Gross Registered Tonnage for ocean-going vessels at Nigerian ports increased by 19.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, reaching 46.75 million GRT, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority. The rise is attributed to a growing preference for larger-capacity ships, driven by improved port infrastructure and rising trade demand. The Lekki Deep Sea Port's operational impact and ongoing maritime reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration contributed to the shift.
Total cargo throughput excluding crude oil terminals rose 11.6 per cent year-on-year to 32.38 million metric tons, up from 29.02 million metric tons in Q1 2025. Outward cargo traffic climbed 23.7 per cent to 14.13 million metric tons, while outward laden container traffic jumped 67.6 per cent, from 61,332 to 102,803 TEUs. Vehicle traffic surged by 67 per cent to 58,870 units compared to 35,262 units in the same period last year.
Transshipment container activity rose 83.1 per cent, indicating Nigeria's expanding role in regional maritime logistics. The NPA linked the growth to stronger import and export activities, improved port productivity and sustained demand for port services. Managing Director Abubakar Dantsoho stated that Nigeria's port system, if properly harnessed, could become a major driver of economic growth. He emphasized the need for efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability in a competitive African trade environment under AfCFTA.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola confirmed procurement processes are ongoing for port upgrades in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar. A $1 billion rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port is also underway. Dantsoho noted Nigeria currently handles only 25 per cent of West Africa's cargo traffic despite accounting for over 60 per cent of the region's GDP.
Abubakar Dantsoho highlights Nigeria's ports as engines of growth while acknowledging they handle just 25% of West Africa's cargo despite the region's largest economy status. This gap suggests current reforms have yet to translate into proportional trade dominance. If larger vessels and rising throughput do not soon close the cargo share deficit, the narrative of maritime transformation risks outpacing reality. The data offers progress, but not proof of regional leadership.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
