The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has launched initiatives to eliminate bottlenecks hindering Nigeria's non-oil exports, aiming to expand export channels, enhance cargo processing, and boost foreign exchange inflows. NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, announced this during the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair, themed "Resilient Trade, Taxation, and the Economy." He emphasized that trade resilience requires efficient infrastructure, predictable fiscal frameworks, and seamless supply chains.
Dr. Dantsoho stated that Nigeria's economic resilience can no longer rely heavily on imports and oil revenues. Instead, expanding non-oil exports and integrating businesses into global value chains is crucial for sustainable economic growth. The NPA is strengthening port infrastructure and extending maritime logistics into the hinterland to enable exporters to access global markets more efficiently.
The Federal Government has approved the transfer of Inland Dry Port (IDP) management and development functions to the NPA. This move will bring port efficiency closer to businesses operating far from coastal ports, particularly benefiting exporters in northern and central Nigeria, including Abuja. Exporters will no longer need to transport raw commodities to coastal ports before completing port clearance and documentation.
The NPA has introduced targeted interventions to eliminate bottlenecks confronting non-oil exporters, including the operationalization of dedicated Export Processing Terminals. These terminals serve as one-stop centers for sorting, packaging, quality certification, and customs documentation before export cargo is moved to port terminals. This has supported the growth of non-oil exports, particularly agricultural commodities and solid minerals.
Agricultural products such as cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, and hibiscus, as well as solid minerals, have recorded increased export activity over the past two years. The streamlined export channels will enhance foreign buyers' confidence in Nigerian products and increase foreign exchange inflows into the domestic economy.
Dr. Dantsoho urged businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, processing, and solid minerals to take advantage of the emerging export infrastructure and expand their presence in international markets. He assured exporters that the NPA is committed to providing efficient port services and extending maritime logistics to different regions of the country.
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for stronger collaboration with the NPA to facilitate trade, unlock investment opportunities, and strengthen the link between Nigeria's maritime sector and the wider business community. ACCI Director General, Agabaidu Jideani, emphasized that closer engagement between the NPA and the organized private sector is critical to improving the ease of doing business and enhancing Nigeria's participation in domestic, regional, and international trade.
Key points
- NPA introduces Export Processing Terminals to eliminate bottlenecks confronting non-oil exporters
- Transfer of Inland Dry Port management to NPA to benefit exporters in northern and central Nigeria
- NPA targets forex inflows through expanded non-oil export channels and improved cargo processing
