The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has outlined the critical role of efficient seaports in driving Nigeria’s economic growth, noting that the maritime sector remains a key enabler of trade and national development. Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, Dantsoho emphasised that improving port efficiency would significantly reduce the cost of doing business and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global market.
Dantsoho assured investors that Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy, citing ongoing federal government reforms and increased private sector participation as critical drivers of transformation in the maritime sector. He noted that the country must urgently refocus its economic priorities toward fully harnessing its vast marine resources in line with global sustainability goals. “The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.
The NPA boss explained that Nigeria’s strategic location, large population and economic strength position it to become a maritime hub for West Africa, comparable to global leaders such as Singapore and Morocco. However, he expressed concern that Nigeria currently handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in the region, even though it accounts for over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP. “It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.
Dantsoho assured investors that the tide is turning, as the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, is implementing far-reaching reforms to reposition the sector. Key initiatives include port modernisation, deployment of a Trade Single Window, implementation of a Port Community System, development of deep seaports and full digitalisation of port operations. He emphasised that private sector funding remains central to achieving these goals, noting that the NPA is actively encouraging project financing to bridge infrastructure gaps and improve efficiency.
The reforms are designed to enhance port efficiency, improve connectivity, reduce freight costs and boost non-oil exports, ultimately driving revenue growth. “The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, attract bigger vessels, reduce freight costs, and expand our export base, which will significantly boost revenue generation,” Dantsoho noted. He stressed that competitiveness in the global maritime industry requires efficient operations, competitive pricing and strong hinterland connectivity, adding that Nigerian ports must remain adaptive to evolving global shipping trends.
