Nigerian Ports Authority Reports 70,000 TEUs Export in 2023

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced a significant rise in export activities at the Lagos Port Complex (LPC) in Apapa, with the volume of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) increasing by 40% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

According to Mr. Charles Okaga, the Port Manager of LPC, this growth is attributed to strategic improvements in port operations, inter-agency collaboration, and investments in infrastructure aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s non-oil exports.

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Rising Export Volumes: Key Data Points

• 2022 vs. 2023 Export Volume: LPC handled over 70,000 TEUs of export containers in 2023, a marked increase from the 50,000 TEUs exported in 2022. This 40% rise equates to a 20,000 TEU increase within just one year, highlighting the port’s growing role in supporting international trade.
• Transport Modes: The growth in exports was driven by enhanced transportation efficiency across multiple channels:
• Road Transport: In 2022, 38,000 TEUs were moved by road, which increased to 55,000 TEUs in 2023.
• Rail Transport: Rail shipments also saw a notable rise, from 5,000 TEUs in 2022 to 8,000 TEUs in 2023.
• Barges: Although barge transport saw a slight decline, from 10,000 TEUs in 2022 to 8,309 TEUs in 2023, it remains a key component of the port’s multimodal logistics framework.

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Strategic Enhancements Driving Growth

1. Infrastructure Development: Okaga noted that the NPA has invested in infrastructure that fosters better coordination between road, rail, and barge services, thus optimizing the flow of cargo through the port. These investments include expanding logistics corridors and improving road access, particularly for exporters using the port’s facilities.

2. Collaboration with Agencies: The NPA’s partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service and other government entities has created a more seamless and business-friendly environment. Okaga emphasized that this inter-agency collaboration has been pivotal in removing bottlenecks and reducing the challenges associated with both imports and exports.

3. Diversification of Exports: Nigeria’s non-oil export strategy is a central part of its economic diversification agenda, aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Okaga reiterated the critical role LPC is playing in facilitating the export of locally produced goods, positioning Nigeria as a growing player in regional and global trade.

Economic Implications

• Boost to Non-Oil Exports: With Nigeria’s focus on reducing its dependency on oil, the increased export volumes at Apapa port highlight the country’s progress in boosting non-oil sectors, particularly agriculture and manufacturing.
• Job Creation and Economic Growth: Increased export activities are likely to spur job creation, both directly within port operations and indirectly across the supply chain, as demand for locally produced goods rises.
• Support for AfCFTA: As Nigeria seeks to leverage the AfCFTA framework, the expansion of export activities through LPC demonstrates its potential to become a major export hub in West Africa.

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Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

With further plans to improve port operations, including ongoing digitization initiatives and continuous inter-agency collaboration, LPC is expected to continue contributing to Nigeria’s export growth. The NPA is optimistic that the port’s role in driving economic diversification will strengthen over time, supporting the government’s efforts to increase the volume of non-oil exports and reduce reliance on global oil markets.

The positive trajectory of the port’s export growth aligns with broader trends in Africa’s push for regional economic integration, positioning Nigeria as a key player in facilitating trade both within and outside the continent.

The Lagos Port Complex’s impressive 40% growth in export volumes is a testament to Nigeria’s strategic efforts to improve its trade infrastructure, reduce bottlenecks, and support economic diversification. As the country moves towards boosting its non-oil exports, LPC will play a central role in facilitating trade and driving Nigeria’s economic growth in the coming years.