Joyce Mmereole Okoli
In a strategic move to bolster the competitiveness of Lekki Deep Seaport within the West African maritime corridor, the Federal Government has approved the maintenance dredging of the seaport’s channel from 16.5 metres to 17 metres, with a long-term target of achieving a 19-metre depth.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, made this disclosure during his maiden visit to the port over the weekend. Accompanied by senior management staff, Dr. Dantsoho emphasized that the upgrade would position Lekki Port as a major transshipment hub serving landlocked neighboring countries and support Nigeria’s export-driven agenda under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“The port’s efficiency is driving steady increases in transshipment numbers, meeting the maritime needs of neighboring countries and supporting NPA’s goal of achieving economies of scale,” Dr. Dantsoho stated.
“This enhanced competitiveness fuels demand, boosts foreign exchange inflows, and contributes significantly to Nigeria’s trade surplus.”
He highlighted the port’s ability to accommodate super post-panamax vessels and its rapid cargo turnaround as key advantages in elevating Nigeria’s export capacity, particularly in agro-allied products.
The NPA boss further revealed that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, has endorsed the dredging project based on the NPA’s recommendation.
The project will be executed through a strategic partnership with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and shipping efficiency.
Dr. Dantsoho also lauded the port’s deployment of advanced technologies, stating that Lekki Port is well-prepared for integration into the National Single Window system via the Port Community System.
“We are hoping that other port locations or terminals will soon attain similar technological capability,” he said. “I really appreciate that Lekki Port has done well in the area of technology deployment.”
He commended the Port Manager, Emmanuel Anda, for the consistent increase in throughput and assured that the NPA would address the operational needs raised during the visit.