NPA records impressive Q1 2026 growth as cargo throughput rises to 32.38 million tons and vessel tonnage hits 46.75 million GRT, signaling stronger maritime trade under AfCFTA reforms.

Nigeria’s maritime sector posted strong operational growth in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels increasing by 19.

5 per cent to 46. 75 million. The development highlights the growing dominance of larger-capacity vessels across Nigerian ports amid ongoing reforms aimed 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 increase in vessel tonnage reflects improved cargo-carrying efficiency and rising confidence among international shipping companies in Nigeria’s port system.
The report explained that the growth represents a strategic shift toward the deployment of larger and more efficient vessels, partly influenced by the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and increasing trade demand.
The strong showing comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to modernise port infrastructure, improve cargo handling operations and secure a greater share of regional cargo traffic under AfCFTA.
Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, recently stated that Nigeria’s ports must move beyond traditional limitations if the nation is to compete effectively in Africa’s rapidly integrating market.
Speaking during an industry forum in Lagos, Dantsoho noted that efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability would determine which countries dominate cargo movement within the new continental trade environment.
“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.
Total cargo throughput excluding crude oil terminals also recorded significant growth during the quarter, rising by 11.6 per cent year-on-year to 32.38 million metric tons from the 29.02 million metric tons achieved in the corresponding period of 2025.
The NPA attributed the increase to growing trade volumes, stronger import and export activities, improved port productivity and sustained demand for port services.
One of the standout performances during the quarter came from outward cargo traffic, which climbed by 23.7 per cent to 14.13 million metric tons, reflecting stronger export competitiveness and deeper integration into regional and global supply chains.
Likewise, outward laden container traffic recorded remarkable growth of 67.6 per cent, increasing from 61,332 TEUs in Q1 2025 to 102,803 TEUs in Q1 2026, a development linked to improved export logistics and terminal efficiency.
Vehicle traffic also emerged as a major growth segment, with total vehicle units handled rising by 67 per cent to 58,870 units during the quarter, compared to 35,262 units recorded in the same period last year.
The report also highlighted an 83.1 per cent increase in transshipment container activity, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing importance within regional maritime trade and logistics networks.
Industry analysts described the increase in transshipment activity as significant, noting that it indicates Nigeria is gradually attracting more regional cargo movement within West Africa, a major objective as AfCFTA continues to dismantle trade barriers across the continent.
The maritime reforms under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu have focused on infrastructure upgrades, digitalisation and institutional restructuring aimed at transforming Nigeria into a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa.
A key part of the reforms is the ongoing rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port following the approval and signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for a $1 billion overhaul of longstanding infrastructure deficiencies to improve port competitiveness.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, also disclosed that procurement processes are ongoing for upgrades at Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar ports as part of efforts to ensure balanced port development nationwide.
Beyond physical infrastructure improvements, the government is pursuing an aggressive digitalisation agenda through the deployment of the Port Community System and the National Single Window platform to streamline cargo clearance, reduce delays and enhance transparency.
Industry stakeholders believe the initiatives could significantly reduce the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports while improving turnaround time and operational efficiency.
The government has also expanded investments in rail integration, inland dry ports, barging operations and export corridors to improve cargo evacuation and ease congestion around port corridors.
Improved security within Nigerian waters has further strengthened confidence in the maritime sector. Nigeria has now gone more than four years without piracy incidents, a development credited to the Deep Blue Programme and enhanced maritime surveillance systems.
According to the NPA, the Q1 performance demonstrates that the maritime sector is evolving into a more cargo-intensive and commercially dynamic ecosystem capable of supporting economic growth, trade facilitation and regional connectivity.
Despite the progress recorded, Dantsoho recently acknowledged that Nigeria still handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in West Africa despite accounting for more than 60 per cent of the region’s GDP, stressing the need to sustain ongoing reforms to fully maximise the country’s maritime potential.
“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he assured.