Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), is sustaining the drive in transforming the
Eastern ports of Nigeria into a new maritime hub.
The transformation is expected to turn the assets as pivotal drivers of economic growth and regional development.
Despite facing longstanding challenges such as poor infrastructure, security concerns, shallow port drafts, and inadequate equipment, these ports hold enormous potential.
Currently, over 30 per cent of imports that arrive through Southwest ports are transported eastward, underscoring the need to strengthen local port capacity to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Historically overshadowed by Lagos, Eastern ports like Port Harcourt, Onne, Warri, and Calabar have remained underutilized despite their proximity to key industrial zones and resource corridors. They currently handle less than a third of their capacity, but with targeted investments and improvements in road and rail connectivity, they can handle up to 35 percent of Nigeria’s maritime business and create over two million jobs.
Under the leadership of NPA’s Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, a vigorous campaign to reposition these ports is underway. Key initiatives include dredging to deepen channel drafts, expanding terminal capacity through public-private partnerships, and modernizing infrastructure to welcome larger vessels. The recent call of the Nigerian-owned MV Ocean Dragon at Onne is a strong symbol of this “Nigeria First” policy aimed at boosting intra-African trade under the AfCFTA framework.
Strategic partnerships with global shipping lines like Hapag-Lloyd, 24-hour customs operations, and tariff incentives have contributed to increased traffic and exports from the Eastern ports. Investments totaling over $1 billion are driving infrastructure upgrades, including road network integration and advanced marine safety equipment. Enhanced security patrols have reduced piracy risks, further ensuring the safety and reliability of shipping routes.
The ongoing improvements are expected to yield significant economic dividends for the Southeast region. Industrial hubs in Aba, Onitsha, and Nnewi stand to benefit from better access to ports, reducing logistics costs and transit times. Port Harcourt is poised to become the Gulf of Guinea’s offshore logistics leader, while Calabar and Warri strengthen regional connectivity with Central and West Africa.
By aligning with the federal government’s economic diversification and “Nigeria First” policies, the NPA’s multifaceted strategy is positioning Eastern ports as vital engines of Nigeria’s blue economy. With continued infrastructure development, security enhancements, and private sector engagement, the Eastern maritime corridor is set to play a central role in Nigeria’s evolving maritime landscape and regional trade integration.