• Nigeria starts procurement to modernize ports under $1B plan
• Project aims to ease congestion, boost capacity, digitize operations
• Strategy targets revival of Nigeria’s role as maritime hub

Nigeria has begun the procurement process to modernize its remaining seaports, after adding Lagos’ main terminals, Tin Can Island and Apapa, to a $1 billion upgrade program. Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola disclosed this on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the CILT Nigeria 2025 Conference in Lagos, according to local media.

The plan targets infrastructure upgrades, faster cargo handling, and higher capacity to meet international standards. Oyetola said the goal is balanced development across the country’s ports, several of which have faced chronic congestion for years.

Abuja aims to improve logistics performance and the competitiveness of the ports and transport sector to restore Nigeria’s position as a West African maritime hub, amid rising competition from Cotonou (Benin), Lomé (Togo), and Tema (Ghana). Persistent congestion in Lagos has, in recent years, shifted a notable share of Nigerian traffic to these neighboring ports.

Beyond physical works, the investment plan includes digitizing port services to improve transparency, streamline operations, and strengthen cargo tracking.

Written in French by Henoc Dossa,

English Adaptation by Mouka Mezonlin