The Port Reforms Advocacy Network, PRAN, has urged stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors to fully back the reforms championed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, reiterating that consolidating gains in non-oil exports is critical to reducing the nation’s reliance on crude oil revenue.
In a statement issued on on Friday, PRAN president Prince Chijioke Adimora commended Dantsoho for his visionary leadership, noting that his efforts in modernizing port infrastructure and digitizing operations have transformed Nigeria’s seaports into engines of economic growth and global competitiveness.
Adimora highlighted figures presented by Dantsoho at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly, which show that increased efficiency at Nigeria’s seaports contributed to a 19.6 per cent growth in non-oil exports in the first half of 2025.
“This achievement demonstrates the central role of maritime gateways in boosting Nigeria’s economy,” he said.
PRAN commended initiatives such as the introduction of paperless transactions, e-tag verification, and electronic call-up systems at Lagos Port Complex, describing them as “game-changers” that are reducing cargo dwell time, improving traffic flow, and restoring investor confidence.
The group also lauded the NPA’s ongoing investment in sustainable and modern operations, including shore-to-ship emission reduction at Lekki Port and the commissioning of new tugboats and marine crafts to support mega facilities like the Lekki Deep Seaport and the Dangote Refinery.
Adimora noted that Dantsoho’s forward-thinking approach, coupled with plans to launch a Port Community System by 2026, positions Nigeria’s ports for long-term viability, efficiency, and competitiveness, making them a hub for regional and international trade.
Back port reforms to boost non-oil exports – PRAN urges stakeholders