The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has said that Nigeria is working to develop a modern and globally competitive port system that will make trade easier, attract foreign investors, and strengthen confidence in the country’s economy.

Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he delivered a paper on “Optimising Nigeria's Port Infrastructure, Enhancing Trade Facilitation and Global Competitiveness,” Dantsoho revealed that the Port Community System (PCS), a digital platform connecting all stakeholders, will be launched in early 2026.

Dantsoho said:

"We are building a globally competitive port system that will strengthen trade facilitation, attract Foreign Direct Investment, and boost investor confidence in Nigeria's economic future. We look forward to continued collaboration to achieve these goals."

According to him, the PCS will enable seamless, paperless transactions, cut waste, and improve efficiency across the ports. He explained that digitalisation efforts have already boosted non-oil exports by 19.6% in the first half of 2025.

The NPA, he noted, has introduced several innovations, such as electronic barriers at Lagos Port Complex, integrated with the Eto electronic call-up system to manage truck entry and reduce congestion.

Other tools, like e-Tag verification, electronic send systems, and joint boarding apps, are also being deployed to cut cargo dwell time and speed up operations.

On sustainability, Dantsoho said the NPA is improving intermodal transport by investing in barge, rail, and truck automation to reduce reliance on road transport and lower carbon emissions.

He added that the authority has also started a shore-to-ship emission reduction programme at Lekki Port.

He further explained that the NPA is promoting a “one-stop shop” system for crude oil exports and payments to streamline approvals and increase government revenue.

Highlighting major infrastructure projects, the NPA boss stated that the Lekki Deep Seaport, built in partnership with other stakeholders, is designed to handle large post-Panamax vessels, thereby making Nigerian exports more competitive.

He also noted the commissioning of new tugboats and marine crafts to support operations at Lekki Port, the Dangote Refinery, and the Dangote Fertiliser Plant.

Dantsoho stressed that the NPA is fully committed to modernising Nigeria’s seaports, adopting greener operations, and making them more efficient and attractive to global investors.