Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded significant growth in the first quarter of 2026 as the Nigerian Ports Authority reported major increases in vessel tonnage, cargo throughput, exports, and container activities across the nation’s ports.
According to the Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review released by the Nigerian Ports Authority, vessel tonnage rose by 19.5 percent to 46.75 million Gross Registered Tonnage, while cargo throughput increased to 32.38 million metric tons compared to 29.02 million metric tons recorded during the same period in 2025.
The report attributed the strong performance to improved port efficiency, increasing trade activities, and the growing operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port. Authorities also noted that larger capacity vessels are increasingly calling at Nigerian ports as confidence in the country’s maritime infrastructure continues to improve.
Export activities recorded impressive growth during the review period. Outward cargo traffic climbed by 23.7 percent to 14.13 million metric tons, reflecting stronger participation in regional and international trade. Outward laden container traffic also surged by 67.6 percent from 61,332 TEUs in Q1 2025 to 102,803 TEUs in Q1 2026.
Vehicle traffic witnessed a sharp increase as total vehicle units handled across Nigerian ports rose by 67 percent to 58,870 units. In addition, transshipment container activity increased by 83.1 percent, further strengthening Nigeria’s position as a growing maritime and logistics hub in West Africa.
Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, recently stated that Nigeria must fully utilize its marine resources to compete effectively under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework. He emphasized that efficiency, speed, innovation, and reliability would shape Africa’s future cargo movement landscape.
The maritime sector growth aligns with ongoing reforms introduced by the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at modernizing infrastructure, improving digital systems, and boosting institutional efficiency.
The Federal Government is currently advancing major port rehabilitation projects, including upgrades at Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, while modernization plans are also ongoing for Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar ports.
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