The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reported a 19.5% increase in vessel traffic in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels rising to 46.75 million.
Economists and policy analysts are sharply divided over the real benefits of the £746 million (about $991 million) export finance guarantee extended by the United Kingdom to Nigeria for the rehabilitation of key port infrastructure in Lagos.
Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded a 24.8% surge in cargo throughput in 2025, rising from 103.6 million metric tonnes in 2024 to 129.3 million metric tonnes, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) latest operational report.
Cargo traffic at Lagos ports has surged, with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) reporting that 18 vessels are scheduled to berth at Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports this week, carrying a mix of containers, bulk commodities, petroleum products, and general cargo.
