Experts warn that Nigeria is forfeiting billions of dollars annually as neighbouring Ghana, Togo and Benin increasingly capture maritime, logistics and port revenues that should flow through Nigerian channels. The losses stem from inefficiencies, rising costs and persistent bottlenecks at Nigerian ports.
Shippers say they prefer alternative West African ports due to faster clearance processes, better security and more predictable operations. Many Nigeria-bound goods are now routed through smaller ports in the subregion.
Stakeholders argue that congestion at Apapa and Tin Can ports, combined with inconsistent regulatory enforcement and infrastructure gaps, continue to drive traffic away. Businesses incur additional expenses transporting goods back into Nigeria from neighbouring ports.
The Federal Government has pledged reforms, including port automation and new deep-sea port investments, but analysts say the pace of implementation remains slow. Private sector leaders warn that the trend could worsen without decisive action. Maritime economists estimate that Nigeria’s logistics competitiveness could improve significantly if operational costs fall and regulatory processes are streamlined.