Driven by ongoing port reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and rising export activity, the maritime sector posted strong growth in the first quarter of 2026 as the Nigerian Ports Authority recorded a 19.5 per cent increase in Gross Registered Tonnage to 46.75 million and cargo throughput of 32.38 million metric tons.
This reinforced the country’s ambition to position its ports as a major trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
President Bola Tinubu has been praised across the world for his bold reforms aimed at turning the Nigerian economy around.
The bold reforms are now yielding results as Nigeria’s maritime sector posted strong growth in the first quarter of 2026 as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) recorded higher cargo throughput, rising export activity, and increased vessel tonnage across the nation’s ports.
Despite fewer vessel calls, Gross Registered Tonnage for ocean-going vessels rose by 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million, reflecting a shift toward larger and more efficient ships, while stronger cargo and container exports reinforced the growing role of Nigerian ports in driving trade and economic activity.
