LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nigeria currently accounts for only about 25 percent of cargo traffic within the West African region, despite having one of the largest economies on the continent, prompting renewed calls for reforms to improve port competitiveness and efficiency.
The position was highlighted on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at approximately 11:00 a.m., during a maritime sector forum held in Lagos, where industry experts, port operators, and policymakers examined challenges limiting Nigeria’s share of regional trade.
Stakeholders at the event noted that Nigeria’s relatively low cargo share is largely due to inefficiencies in port operations, high costs of doing business, and delays in cargo clearance processes. These factors, they said, have driven shippers to neighbouring countries with more streamlined systems.
Participants explained that ports in countries such as Benin and Ghana have gained competitive advantage by offering faster turnaround times, reduced bureaucracy, and improved infrastructure, attracting cargo that would otherwise be destined for Nigeria.
The discussion also pointed to persistent issues such as congestion at major ports, inadequate logistics networks, and regulatory bottlenecks, all of which continue to hinder the country’s ability to function as a regional maritime hub.
In response, authorities are reportedly advancing a series of reforms aimed at boosting efficiency and increasing Nigeria’s cargo handling capacity. These include digitalisation of port processes, expansion of infrastructure, and policy measures designed to reduce costs and improve transparency.
Industry players emphasized the need for coordinated action across government agencies to ensure that reforms are effectively implemented. They noted that fragmented operations and overlapping responsibilities have historically slowed progress within the sector.
Experts also highlighted the importance of investing in modern port facilities and strengthening inland transportation systems, including rail and road networks, to support seamless cargo movement from ports to final destinations.
The forum further underscored the economic significance of increasing Nigeria’s share of regional cargo traffic, noting that improved performance in the maritime sector could generate substantial revenue, create jobs, and enhance trade competitiveness.
Analysts say that with the right reforms, Nigeria has the potential to significantly expand its cargo throughput and reclaim its position as a leading trade hub in West Africa.
As reform efforts gain momentum, stakeholders are expected to closely monitor implementation outcomes, with the goal of transforming Nigeria’s ports into efficient, globally competitive gateways for regional and international trade.
