By Platform Reporters
LAGOS – The Federal Government’s reforms in the maritime sector are paying off as the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, recorded strong growth across key indicators in the Second Quarter of 2026.
According to the NPA Operational Performance Report for Q2 2026, cargo throughput rose by 12.3% to 35.74 million metric tonnes, up from 31.83 million tonnes in Q2 2025. Vessel traffic also climbed 14.4% from 1,050 to 1,201 ocean-going vessels.
Export and Transshipment Gain Ground:
A breakdown shows inward cargo grew by 7.7% and accounted for 56.8% of total cargo, while outward cargo surged 22%, signaling improved export performance. Transshipment cargo hit 488,364 metric tonnes, representing 1.4% of total throughput.
Container traffic rose by 11.3% to 602,392 TEUs, with transshipment containers recording 29,038 TEUs compared to zero in Q2 2025. Vehicle traffic also jumped 18.3% to 44,147 units, driven largely by exchange rate stability.
Modernisation and Digital Push:
NPA Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, described the performance as proof of the ports’ resilience and growing competitiveness. He said the Authority’s 2026 priority is a massive infrastructure overhaul backed by digital reforms.
“The centerpiece is the modernisation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. Apapa is nearly 100 years old and Tin Can over 50,” Dantsoho stated. He added that NPA is also supporting Lekki and Badagry deep-sea projects and revitalizing Eastern Ports to decongest Lagos.
The report noted that full implementation of the Port Community System, PCS, integrated with the National Single Window, NSW, which became operational in Q1 2026, will streamline operations, reduce costs and position Nigeria as West Africa’s trade hub.
