Nigeria’s ports recorded a 12.3 per cent increase in cargo throughput in the second quarter of 2026, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) latest operational performance report.
Cargo handled rose from 31.83 million metric tonnes in the second quarter of 2025 to 35.74 million metric tonnes during the same period in 2026.
The NPA attributed the growth to ongoing reforms and improvements in the maritime sector, noting that the increase reflected stronger port activity and trade.
The report also showed that the number of ocean-going vessels handled increased by 14.4 per cent, from 1,050 to 1,201.
Container traffic rose by 11.3 per cent, from 541,229 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) to 602,392 TEUs.
Vehicle traffic also increased by 18.3 per cent, with 44,147 units handled in Q2 2026 compared with 37,306 units in the corresponding period of 2025.
Outward cargo increased by 22 per cent, indicating improved export activity during the period.
NPA Managing Director, Abubakar Dantsoho, said the authority’s priorities include modernising Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, improving infrastructure at Eastern Ports and supporting the development of deep-sea ports.
He added that the NPA was also strengthening digital systems, security and collaboration with relevant agencies to improve cargo evacuation and reduce congestion.
The authority said continued investment in port infrastructure and operational efficiency would help position Nigeria as a major regional trade and transshipment hub.
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