The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is stepping up efforts to tackle NPA port bottlenecks and improve the movement of non-oil export cargo across the country, as the authority seeks to make Nigeria’s export system more efficient and help local businesses compete more effectively in international markets. The latest measures focus on expanding export channels, improving cargo processing and bringing some port services closer to businesses operating away from Nigeria’s coastal cities.
NPA Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed the plans during the authority’s special day at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair, organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He explained that the NPA was strengthening port infrastructure while extending maritime logistics into the hinterland so that exporters could gain easier access to international markets.
According to Dantsoho, Nigeria cannot continue to rely heavily on oil revenues and imports while trying to build a more resilient economy, making the expansion of non-oil exports and the connection of Nigerian businesses to global value chains increasingly important.
NPA Port Bottlenecks Targeted Through Inland Dry Ports
One of the major measures involves the management and development of Inland Dry Ports, which the Federal Government recently approved for transfer to the NPA. The authority expects the arrangement to bring port services closer to exporters and businesses located far from the coastal ports.
The development could have particular importance for businesses in northern and central Nigeria, including those operating around Abuja, because exporters may no longer need to transport raw commodities all the way to coastal ports before completing important clearance and documentation processes.
By connecting Inland Dry Ports with seaport operations, the NPA hopes to make exporting from different parts of Nigeria more accessible and commercially viable. The approach could also reduce some of the logistical challenges that businesses face when moving agricultural products and other commodities over long distances before beginning the final export process.
The NPA’s plan also comes as businesses continue to deal with transportation expenses, cargo delays and other supply-chain challenges that can affect the cost and timing of exports. Reducing NPA port bottlenecks could therefore give exporters greater certainty when planning shipments and meeting delivery schedules.
Export Terminals Could Improve Cargo Processing
Beyond the inland ports, the NPA has introduced dedicated Export Processing Terminals as another measure to address difficulties facing non-oil exporters. The terminals provide one-stop facilities where exporters can complete activities such as sorting, packaging, quality certification and customs documentation before moving their cargo to port terminals.
The authority believes this system can reduce unnecessary movement between different locations and make the export process more organised, particularly for businesses that may struggle with complicated procedures or delays at different stages of cargo preparation.
Dantsoho said the interventions were already supporting increased activity in several areas of Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, particularly agricultural commodities and solid minerals. Products including cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts and hibiscus have recorded increased export activity over the past two years, according to the NPA.
Improving the process could also help Nigerian producers respond more effectively to international buyers, who often require exporters to meet specific delivery schedules and maintain consistent standards. When cargo spends less time waiting for documentation, processing or transportation, businesses can plan their operations with greater confidence.
The NPA expects more efficient export channels to strengthen foreign buyers’ confidence in Nigerian products and contribute to higher foreign exchange inflows. The authority has therefore encouraged businesses involved in agriculture, manufacturing, processing and solid minerals to take advantage of the emerging export infrastructure and explore more opportunities in international markets.
Businesses Watch Port Reforms Closely
The impact of the reforms will depend on how effectively the NPA implements the new measures and connects inland facilities with existing seaport operations. Businesses will also need reliable roads, efficient customs procedures, dependable logistics services and clear regulatory processes for the benefits of improved port infrastructure to reach exporters.
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry has also called for stronger cooperation between the private sector and the NPA, arguing that closer engagement could help improve trade facilitation, strengthen supply chains and create more opportunities for businesses involved in domestic and international trade.
For exporters, manufacturers, logistics companies and distributors, improvements in port efficiency could influence both the cost and speed of moving goods to international markets. Continued efforts to remove NPA port bottlenecks could therefore play an important role in Nigeria’s wider attempt to expand non-oil exports and reduce its dependence on oil-related earnings.
As the authority continues to extend maritime logistics beyond the coastal ports, the success of these reforms will be measured by how effectively they improve cargo movement, reduce delays and make exporting more practical for businesses across different parts of Nigeria.