W/Bank ranks Apapa, TinCan among best improved ports

Nigeria’s port reform programme has received a major boost as Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port were ranked among the world’s Top 20 Most Improved Container Ports in the 2026 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) released by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. The ranking highlights significant gains in cargo handling efficiency, […]

Nigeria’s port reform programme has received a major boost as Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port were ranked among the world’s Top 20 Most Improved Container Ports in the 2026 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) released by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence.
The ranking highlights significant gains in cargo handling efficiency, vessel turnaround time and overall port operations, reflecting ongoing reforms driven by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Widely regarded as a global benchmark for port efficiency, the CPPI measures performance based on the time vessels spend in ports and the effectiveness of cargo operations.
Industry stakeholders say the recognition validates efforts to modernise port infrastructure, deepen digitalisation and streamline cargo clearance processes.
Improved efficiency at the country’s busiest ports is expected to reduce shipping costs, enhance supply chain reliability and strengthen Nigeria’s appeal to investors.
The development comes amid improving trade performance. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed Nigeria recorded a trade surplus of N7.54 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, extending a positive trend that began in 2024.
Reacting to the ranking, NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, attributed the achievement to the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and creating an investor-friendly business environment.
He said ongoing investments in technology, equipment upgrades and operational reforms would further boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.
The recognition is expected to strengthen investor confidence and support ongoing port modernisation efforts, including the £746 million rehabilitation of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports secured through UK Export Finance and coordinated by Citibank during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to London in March 2026.