…as Larger vessels drive 19.5% surge, vehicle traffic hits 67%
Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded strong operational growth in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels rising by 19.5 percent to 46.75 million. This underscores the increasing dominance of larger-capacity ships across the nation’s ports amid ongoing reforms targeted at positioning the country as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to the Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the rise in vessel tonnage signals improved cargo-carrying efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports.
The report noted that this development reflects a strategic shift toward larger, more efficient vessels, driven partly by the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and expanding trade demand.
This strong performance comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to modernize Nigeria’s port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency, and capture a larger share of regional cargo flows under the AfCFTA.
Managing Director of the NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, recently stated that Nigeria’s ports must evolve beyond traditional limitations to compete effectively in a rapidly integrating African market.
Speaking at an industry forum in Lagos, Dantsoho emphasized that efficiency, speed, innovation, and reliability will determine which countries dominate cargo flows in the new continental trade environment.
“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilization of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.
Total cargo throughput, excluding crude oil terminals, also posted strong growth during the quarter, increasing by 11.6 percent year-on-year to 32.38 million metric tons from the 29.02 million metric tons recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
The NPA attributed this growth to rising trade volumes, stronger import and export activities, improved port productivity, and sustained demand for port services.
One of the strongest performances during the period came from outward cargo traffic, which surged by 23.7 percent to 14.13 million metric tons, reflecting stronger export competitiveness and deeper integration into regional and global supply chains.
Similarly, outward laden container traffic recorded exceptional growth of 67.6 percent, rising from 61,332 TEUs in Q1 2025 to 102,803 TEUs in Q1 2026, a performance linked to improved export logistics and terminal efficiency.
Vehicle traffic also emerged as a major growth area, with total units handled rising sharply by 67 percent to 58,870 units during the quarter, compared to 35,262 units in the same period last year.
The report further highlighted an 83.1 percent increase in transshipment container activity, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing relevance within regional maritime trade and logistics networks.
Industry analysts suggest the increase in trans—shipment activity is particularly significant as it indicates Nigeria is beginning to attract more regional cargo movement within West Africa, a critical objective as the AfCFTA gradually dismantles trade barriers across the continent.
The maritime reforms pursued under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) have centered on infrastructure upgrades, digitalization, and institutional restructuring aimed at transforming the country into a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa.
A major component of these reforms is the ongoing rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, following the approval and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a $1 billion overhaul of longstanding infrastructure deficiencies to improve port competitiveness.