NPA kicks off Eastern ports’ revamp

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting Nigeria’s export capacity with the unveiling of the Eastern Ports upgrade at the Enugu Trade Fair. This development is part of the Authority’s broader strategy to promote export expansion and diversify the nation’s economy. The move is expected to attract more cargo traffic to […]

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting Nigeria’s export capacity with the unveiling of the Eastern Ports upgrade at the Enugu Trade Fair.

This development is part of the Authority’s broader strategy to promote export expansion and diversify the nation’s economy.

The move is expected to attract more cargo traffic to the Eastern Ports, thereby increasing revenue generation and creating employment opportunities.

The Authority said it has identified the Eastern Ports as a critical gateway for Nigeria’s export trade, particularly for the South-Eastern region.

By upgrading the ports, the Authority aims to reduce congestion at the Lagos ports and provide alternative routes for exporters.

Speaking at the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair, held recently in the state, the Managing Director of NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, said the authority is repositioning the nation’s port system to connect local producers, especially small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), to global markets.

Dantsoho highlighted the strategic importance of Enugu as a commercial gateway to the South-East, noting that its location presents vast opportunities for export expansion, particularly in agro-allied products.

“The strategic positioning of Enugu as the gateway to the South-Eastern hinterland presents huge opportunities for the expansion of export opportunities, which is the focal point of the Nigerian Ports Authority,” he said.

He commended the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture for sustaining the trade fair as a platform for enterprise development and international trade engagement.

As part of efforts to drive cargo traffic and improve capacity, Dantsoho disclosed that the NPA is investing in the rehabilitation of key eastern ports, including Onne, Warri, and Calabar, while also supporting the development of new deep-seaports across the region.