Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has announced that the extensive redevelopment of Lagos’ Apapa and Tin Can Island ports is slated for completion within a four-year timeframe.
Addressing delegates at the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) World Ports Conference in Kobe, Japan, themed ‘Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times,’ Dantsoho revealed that the rehabilitation project is scheduled to begin in early 2026. This follows comprehensive engineering, environmental, and design assessments that are currently underway.
This modernization initiative aligns with the federal government’s broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s seaport infrastructure, boost foreign direct investment, and elevate the maritime sector’s position within the global supply chain.
“Undertaking a project of this magnitude requires meticulous preparation,” Dantsoho explained. “Just as constructing a modest home can take several years, rebuilding a port is far more complex and time-consuming. We are targeting a 48-month period for the reconstruction, with construction expected to commence in the first quarter of next year.”
In his capacity as IAPH’s Vice President for Africa, Dr. Dantsoho highlighted the promising investment climate in Nigeria, crediting the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He emphasized that fostering strong partnerships is essential to attracting investors to the country’s port sector.
“For many years, a lack of trust and solid relationships has hindered collaboration,” he noted. “At this conference, the recurring theme is collaboration, but collaboration cannot thrive without trust and meaningful connections. Building these relationships is crucial because ports are long-term investments designed to last at least 50 years. Investors need confidence in the ecosystem they are entering.”
“Our goal is to cultivate a network of trusted partners who view each other as integral parts of a shared system. This is why we engage regularly with stakeholders, building friendships and partnerships that foster mutual confidence,” he added.
As an example of such collaboration, Dantsoho mentioned Nigeria’s contract with CrimsonLogic, a Singaporean firm affiliated with the Port Authority of Singapore, to develop the country’s national single window system. “This partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can bring the necessary expertise, technology, and financial resources to our ports,” he said.
He further stressed that port development demands substantial capital investment, which local financial institutions alone cannot provide. “The scale of funding required is beyond the capacity of domestic banks. Therefore, attracting foreign investment and forming strategic alliances are indispensable for meaningful progress,” Dantsoho explained.
Highlighting the rapid technological advancements in maritime operations, he underscored the need for Nigeria to prioritize automation and digital innovation across its seaports. “The global shipping industry is evolving towards automation, with autonomous vessels expected to operate by 2040. Nigeria must embrace these technologies to remain competitive,” he stated.
“Since transitioning from a public to a private sector port system in 2006, we recognize that significant investment in technology is essential. Investors will only commit funds if they are assured of returns, which is why building trust and strong partnerships is vital,” he added.
Dr. Dantsoho concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s active participation in regional and international maritime organizations, including the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA), IAPH, and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). “Being part of these global networks helps us forge lasting friendships and partnerships, which are key to achieving successful outcomes for our ports,” he said.