The federal government has announced that the upgrade of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos will commence in the second quarter (Q2) of 2026, with completion expected within 48 months.
The project is part of a £746 million export finance deal signed with the United Kingdom, supported by UK Export Finance (UKEF).
The deal includes the supply of 120,000 tonnes of steel by British Steel, valued at £70 million, and is expected to generate £236 million in supplier contracts for British companies.
The upgrade will include dredging of port channels to accommodate larger vessels, increasing the maximum draft from 13 meters to at least 16 meters.
Boma Alabi, chairman of the Shipping Association of Nigeria, described the project as a “renewed optimism” for stakeholders, noting that the ports have not been upgraded in over 15 years despite significant growth in Nigeria’s population and trade volumes.
The project aligns with Nigeria’s priority on infrastructure, energy, and industrial development, and is expected to boost economic activity, create jobs, and reduce poverty.
