The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is taking export logistics closer to businesses in Nigeria's hinterland to remove trade bottlenecks and expand non-oil exports. This move aims to benefit exporters in northern and central Nigeria, including Abuja, by reducing distance and logistics challenges. The NPA Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, announced this at the NPA Special Day at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair.
Dr Dantsoho stated that the authority is strengthening port infrastructure and extending maritime logistics into the hinterland to enable Nigerian businesses to access international markets efficiently. He emphasized that Nigeria can no longer rely on imports and oil revenues for economic growth, stressing the need to expand non-oil exports and integrate businesses into global value chains.
The recent Federal Government approval transferring Inland Dry Port (IDP) management and development functions to the NPA will bring port services closer to businesses operating far from coastal ports. This development will reduce the logistical burden on exporters in northern and central Nigeria, making export trade more accessible and commercially viable.
The NPA has introduced targeted interventions to address bottlenecks confronting non-oil exporters, including the operationalisation of dedicated Export Processing Terminals. These terminals provide one-stop facilities for sorting, packaging, quality certification, and customs documentation before export cargo is moved to port terminals.
The interventions have supported increased export activity, particularly in agricultural commodities and solid minerals, and helped Nigerian producers meet international delivery schedules. Commodities such as cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, and hibiscus, alongside solid minerals, have recorded increased export activity over the past two years.
Dr Dantsoho said that improving the efficiency of export channels would strengthen foreign buyers' confidence in Nigerian products and ultimately increase foreign exchange inflows into the domestic economy. He urged businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, processing, and solid minerals to take advantage of the emerging export infrastructure and expand their presence in international markets.
The NPA chief executive encouraged prospective businessmen and entrepreneurs to embrace export trade, emphasizing that integrating Inland Dry Ports with seaport operations would enhance the country's export capabilities. By doing so, Nigeria can increase its foreign exchange earnings and build a resilient economy.
Key points
- The NPA is strengthening port infrastructure and extending maritime logistics into the hinterland to enable Nigerian businesses to access international markets more efficiently.
- The recent Federal Government approval transferring IDP management and development functions to the NPA will bring port services closer to businesses operating far from coastal ports.
- The NPA's interventions have supported increased export activity, particularly in agricultural commodities and solid minerals.
