FG Approves Expansion of Lekki Deep Seaport Channel to Enhance Trade

Lagos: The Federal Government has sanctioned the maintenance dredging of the Lekki Deep Seaport channel, increasing its depth from 16.5 meters to 17 meters, with plans to achieve a depth of 19 meters. This decision, aimed at bolstering Nigeria's maritime trade capabilities, comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the country's ports. According to News Agency of Nigeria, Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), conveyed this development through Mr. Okechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager of Communication and Strategy, following a recent visit to the port. Dantsoho urged the management of Lekki Port to enhance transshipment operations to better serve neighboring landlocked countries. He highlighted the promising increase in cargo throughput at the port, indicating substantial potential for further growth. The capacity of Lekki Port to accommodate super post-Panamax vessels significantly improves cargo processing and vessel turna round times, thereby enhancing Nigeria's export competitiveness under the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). This capability not only supports the rising transshipment volumes but also aids neighboring countries in meeting their maritime demands, aligning with the NPA's objectives for scale efficiency. Dantsoho expressed optimism that the port's export volumes would soon multiply, contributing to national economic goals. He reiterated the commitment of both the NPA and the Federal Government to sustain this growth and support the port's operations. The approval for dredging was granted by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, based on NPA's recommendation, and involves a strategic partnership with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to execute the dredging for trade facilitation. The government is also keen on strengthening ties with CHEC to extend Nigeria's trade volumes through Lekki Port. Dantsoho described Lekki Port as Nigeria's latest port facility, emphasizi ng its embodiment of modern, world-class infrastructure. He acknowledged the port's readiness for a port community system, an essential requirement for integration into the National Single Window. Dantsoho stressed the importance of deploying full technology across all ports and terminals to enhance operational efficiency, noting that a channel survey contract had been awarded to meet international navigation and port standards. This initiative aims to improve channel management around Lekki Port and support operational optimization. Dantsoho pointed out that many port efficiency tools, such as Navigational Buoys and Tug Boats, are priced in dollars and must be continually procured. He emphasized the need for increased revenue to purchase such equipment and ensure competitive salaries for operating personnel. With the full deployment of the Single Window system, which aims for 95 percent paperless processes, port revenues are expected to triple. Electronic transactions will eliminate unofficial payments, m aking port operations more transparent and efficient, he said. At that point, Dantsoho indicated that the NPA could consider reducing Ship Dues to support shipping businesses. He commended Lekki Deep Seaport for its excellent performance and pledged ongoing support to maximize its potential. Earlier, Wang Qiang, Managing Director of Lekki Port, submitted policy support requests to the NPA leadership, including tariff adjustments to reflect service costs and inflation, as well as lower ship dues for large vessels and feeders. Qiang also requested night pilotage services to enable 24/7 operations, improving vessel turnaround times. During his visit, Dantsoho also toured the $19.5 billion Dangote Petrochemicals Refinery facility.