The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has launched initiatives to address challenges hindering non-oil exports, aiming to boost foreign exchange earnings and enhance cargo processing. At the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair, NPA Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho emphasized the need for Nigeria to diversify its economy beyond oil revenues and imports. He highlighted the importance of expanding non-oil exports and integrating local businesses into global value chains. This move is expected to build a more resilient economy.
To achieve this goal, the NPA is strengthening port infrastructure and extending maritime logistics into the hinterland. This will enable businesses across Nigeria to access international markets more efficiently. The recent transfer of Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) management to the NPA will bring port services closer to businesses located far from coastal ports. Exporters in northern and central Nigeria, including Abuja, will benefit from reduced transportation costs and streamlined clearance processes.
The NPA has introduced measures to tackle 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. This development has supported increased export activity, particularly in agricultural commodities and solid minerals. Cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, and hibiscus are among the agricultural commodities that have recorded increased export activity in the past two years.
Dr. Dantsoho urged businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, processing, and solid minerals to take advantage of the emerging export infrastructure and expand into international markets. He emphasized that more efficient export channels would improve foreign buyers' confidence in Nigerian products and increase foreign exchange earnings for the country. The NPA will continue to improve port services and extend maritime logistics to different regions, creating an environment where businesses can compete effectively in global markets.
The Director-General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Agabaidu Jideani, called for stronger collaboration between the chamber and the NPA to facilitate trade and unlock investment opportunities. He stressed the importance of closer engagement between the NPA and the organized private sector to improve the ease of doing business and strengthen supply chains. The efficiency and accessibility of Nigeria's ports have direct implications for importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors, logistics operators, and retailers.
Jideani described the NPA's participation in the Abuja International Trade Fair as an opportunity for dialogue, stakeholder engagement, and partnership. He expressed the chamber's readiness to deepen its relationship with the NPA through policy dialogues, business forums, sensitization programs, and capacity-building initiatives. Stronger collaboration between the maritime authority and the organized private sector will help improve trade efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and create new opportunities for businesses.
The Abuja International Trade Fair brings together businesses, investors, government agencies, diplomatic missions, financial institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to showcase products and services, establish business connections, explore markets, and discuss issues affecting the economy. The ACCI looks forward to building a stronger and sustained partnership with the NPA to support businesses, facilitate trade, and improve the competitiveness of the Nigerian economy.
Key points
- NPA introduces Export Processing Terminals to streamline export processes
- Collaboration between NPA and ACCI to facilitate trade and unlock investment opportunities
- NPA's efforts to strengthen port infrastructure and extend maritime logistics into the hinterland
