Nigerian Ports Authority moves to upgrade dry ports and ease Apapa congestion

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is implementing new strategies to improve maritime logistics and reduce congestion across the country’s port systems.

To address inland logistics, the NPA is working to upgrade infrastructure and technical capacity at inland dry ports, such as Dala and Funtua. Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho emphasized that these facilities must be modernized and integrated with digital platforms like the Port Community System (PCS) and the National Single Window to match the modernization occurring at seaports. This follows a directive from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy to transfer operational oversight of inland dry ports to the NPA.

Simultaneously, the NPA is taking measures to clear traffic gridlock in the Apapa port corridors in Lagos. Efforts include inspecting holding bays, directing operators to move containers to off-dock terminals, and reviewing gate closure notification procedures. To maintain traffic flow, the authority has established a 24-hour presence on access roads, conducting joint patrols with the Marine Police to monitor truck movements and ensure compliance with electronic call-up systems.