The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a $1 billion (₦1.4 trillion) investment for the comprehensive modernisation of the Apapa and TinCan Island ports in Lagos, marking one of the country’s most ambitious port infrastructure upgrades in decades.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the approval on Thursday, stating that the project is designed to transform the two busiest ports in Nigeria into paperless, technology-driven logistics hubs. According to him, the modernisation initiative will enhance cargo handling efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time, and boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.
“The goal is to build a smart, efficient, and sustainable port system that meets international standards,” Oyetola said. “We are committed to deploying technology and automation to eliminate bottlenecks, improve transparency, and make our ports globally competitive.”
The project falls under the framework of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s 10-year strategic plan, which aims to reposition Nigeria’s maritime sector as a major driver of economic growth and diversification. The strategy focuses on infrastructure renewal, digitalisation, environmental sustainability, and regional trade facilitation.
Oyetola revealed that the modernisation effort will include the reconstruction of key port facilities, the installation of smart cargo handling systems, the digital integration of customs and clearance operations, and the development of intermodal transport links to ease congestion and improve cargo evacuation.
The minister also confirmed that similar upgrades would be extended to other major ports across the country, including Port Harcourt, Onne, Warri, and Calabar, in subsequent phases of the national maritime reform plan.
Industry experts have welcomed the move as a timely intervention to address decades of infrastructural decay and operational inefficiencies at Nigerian ports, which have long hindered trade and increased logistics costs.
Analysts believe that successful implementation of the Lagos port modernisation could unlock billions in trade revenue, attract foreign investment, and significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on neighbouring ports in Ghana, Togo, and Benin for transshipment activities.
The Apapa and TinCan Island modernisation project is expected to commence in 2026, pending the completion of procurement and environmental assessment processes.
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