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NPA Strengthens Export Infrastructure to Drive Non-Oil Revenue Growth
Funke Akinbobola
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has stepped up efforts to improve non-oil exports by addressing logistical challenges, expanding export channels and strengthening cargo processing to increase foreign exchange earnings.
The Managing Director of the NPA, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed this at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).
Dantsoho said the authority was improving port infrastructure and extending maritime logistics services to inland areas to help Nigerian businesses access international markets more efficiently.
He stressed that Nigeria must reduce its dependence on crude oil revenue and imports by strengthening non-oil exports and connecting local businesses to global supply chains.
According to him, the Federal Government’s approval for the transfer of Inland Dry Port management and development functions to the NPA would bring port services closer to businesses located far from coastal areas.
He explained that the arrangement would benefit exporters in northern and central Nigeria by reducing the need to transport raw commodities to coastal ports before completing clearance and documentation procedures.
Dantsoho also highlighted the introduction of dedicated Export Processing Terminals as part of the authority’s efforts to address challenges facing non-oil exporters.
He said the terminals provide facilities for sorting, packaging, quality certification and customs documentation before export cargo moves to seaport terminals.
The NPA managing director noted that these measures were supporting export activities involving agricultural products and solid minerals. He identified cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts and hibiscus among the agricultural commodities that had recorded increased export activity over the past two years.
He added that more efficient export procedures would improve foreign buyers’ confidence in Nigerian products, support timely deliveries and increase foreign exchange inflows.
Dantsoho urged businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, processing and solid minerals to take advantage of the available infrastructure and explore opportunities in international markets.
He reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to providing efficient port services and extending maritime logistics support to exporters across the country.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Agabaidu Jideani, called for stronger collaboration between the chamber and the NPA to improve trade and attract investment.
Jideani said closer engagement between the maritime sector and the organised private sector would strengthen supply chains, improve the ease of doing business and expand Nigeria’s participation in domestic and international trade.
He noted that efficient and accessible ports were essential to the operations of importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors and logistics companies.
The ACCI director-general expressed the chamber’s readiness to work with the NPA through business forums, policy discussions, training programmes and other initiatives aimed at improving trade.
He added that stronger cooperation between both organisations would help businesses access markets, improve logistics and create new economic opportunities.
The Abuja International Trade Fair provided a platform for businesses, government agencies, investors and other stakeholders to discuss trade, investment and economic development.
