By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded strong operational growth in the first quarter of 2026, with total cargo throughput across the nation’s ports rising to 32.38 million metric tons amid increased trade activity and ongoing port reforms.
Data released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) showed that Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels increased by 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million during the period, reflecting the growing use of larger-capacity vessels at Nigerian ports.
According to the NPA’s Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review, the increase in vessel tonnage points to improved cargo-carrying efficiency and rising confidence among international shipping lines in Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.
The report linked the development to the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port, rising trade volumes, and reforms aimed at positioning Nigeria as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Total cargo throughput excluding crude oil terminals rose by 11.6 per cent year-on-year from 29.02 million metric tons in Q1 2025 to 32.38 million metric tons in the review period.
Outward cargo traffic recorded one of the strongest performances, increasing by 23.7 per cent to 14.13 million metric tons, while outward laden container traffic surged by 67.6 per cent to 102,803 TEUs from 61,332 TEUs recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
Vehicle traffic also grew significantly, with total vehicle units handled rising by 67 per cent to 58,870 units during the quarter.
The report further showed that transshipment container activity increased by 83.1 per cent, signalling Nigeria’s growing importance in regional maritime trade and logistics across West Africa.
NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, recently said Nigeria’s ports must improve efficiency, speed, and innovation to remain competitive under the AfCFTA framework.
He noted that the federal government’s maritime reforms are focused on infrastructure upgrades, digitalisation, and institutional restructuring aimed at transforming Nigeria into a leading logistics and trade hub on the continent.
Part of the reform efforts includes the ongoing rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port following the approval of a $1 billion infrastructure overhaul project designed to improve port competitiveness and operational efficiency.
