Nigerian Federal Government approves modernisation of four major ports

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the approval on September 27, 2026, saying the programme builds on the government’s earlier plan to modernise the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.

According to the minister, extending the modernisation programme to ports outside Lagos is intended to reduce the concentration of cargo traffic around the Lagos ports and create additional efficient gateways for international trade.

Oyetola said upgraded infrastructure and improved operations at the four ports are expected to enhance cargo handling, reduce the time vessels spend at the ports and improve the movement of goods.

He added that the ports have strategic importance for Nigeria’s trade, industrial development and regional connectivity.

The Federal Government says the initiative forms part of a wider programme to expand and modernise Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

The programme also includes efforts to facilitate the development of additional deep-sea ports, including projects in Ibom, Bakassi, Agge, Gateway, Ondo and Bonny.

The government says the broader objective is to create a more integrated maritime and logistics system, linking ports with roads, railways and inland waterways to make the movement of cargo more efficient.

The announcement comes amid concerns over ageing infrastructure at several Nigerian ports. The Federal Ministry of Information recently reported that, apart from Lekki Deep Sea Port, many Nigerian ports are more than 50 years old, with infrastructure limitations affecting cargo-handling efficiency.

The Federal Government says the modernisation programme is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional maritime and logistics hub, while supporting trade, investment and job creation.

Further implementation details, including the specific projects and timelines for the four ports, are expected as the modernisation programme progresses.