NPA Takes Steps to Ease Export Challenges and Increase Forex

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is working to remove obstacles that affect Nigeria’s non-oil exports. They are pushing to expand export routes, improve cargo handling, and increase foreign exchange earnings for the economy.

The Managing Director and CEO of the NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, shared this news at the 21st International Trade Fair in Abuja. The event ran from 25 September to 6 October and focused on "Resilient Trade, Taxation, and the Economy."

Dantsoho mentioned that the authority is upgrading port facilities and extending maritime logistics to help exporters reach global markets more easily.

During his speech at the Abuja International Trade Fair, organized by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), he highlighted that a resilient trade system needs good infrastructure, clear fiscal policies, and smooth supply chains.

He pointed out that Nigeria's economy should not rely mainly on imports and oil money. Expanding non-oil exports and connecting businesses across Nigeria to international markets is essential for sustainable economic growth.

Port Efficiency

The NPA CEO said the federal government recently approved the transfer of management of Inland Dry Ports (IDP) to the NPA. This change will help improve port efficiency for businesses located far from coastal ports.

Dantsoho explained that this move would particularly help exporters in the northern and central parts of Nigeria, including Abuja. They will no longer need to transport raw goods to coastal ports for clearance and documentation.

“By bringing Inland Dry Ports under the operational purview of the NPA, exporters in northern and central Nigeria, including right here in Abuja, no longer need to move raw commodities to coastal ports before undergoing port clearance and documentation,” he said.

Export Processing Terminals

The NPA leader also mentioned that they have introduced specific measures to tackle challenges faced by non-oil exporters. This includes creating dedicated Export Processing Terminals.

These terminals act as one-stop shops where sorting, packaging, quality checks, and customs paperwork can be done before goods are sent to port terminals.

He noted that these efforts are already boosting non-oil exports, especially in agriculture and solid minerals. They also help Nigerian producers meet international delivery deadlines.

Dantsoho highlighted that products like cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, and hibiscus have seen a rise in export activity over the last two years.

He said that these improved export channels would build trust among foreign buyers and increase foreign exchange earnings for the Nigerian economy.

Expand to International Markets

The NPA managing director encouraged businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, processing, and solid minerals to make the most of the new export facilities and grow their presence in global markets.

“To our prospective businessmen and entrepreneurs, now is the time to embrace export trade,” Dantsoho said.

He added that connecting Inland Dry Ports with seaport operations would make exporting easier and more profitable for various regions in Nigeria.

Dantsoho assured exporters that the NPA is dedicated to providing effective port services and extending maritime logistics throughout the country.

He said the aim is to create an environment where all exporters, regardless of size or location, can access reliable logistics support and compete well in global markets.

The NPA boss emphasized that a strong Nigerian economy relies on a healthy trade system. He said the authority will keep supporting initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s position in international trade.

Calls for Collaborations

Agabaidu Jideani, the Abuja Director General of ACCI, also called for better collaboration between businesses and the NPA to boost trade and open up investment opportunities.

Speaking at the event, he said that working together will strengthen the link between Nigeria's maritime sector and the business community.

Jideani stated that closer ties between the NPA and the organized private sector are vital for improving the ease of doing business, enhancing supply chains, and increasing Nigeria's role in trade at all levels.

He remarked, "The efficiency, accessibility and competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports have direct implications for importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors, logistics operators, retailers and numerous other businesses across our sectoral groups."

Jideani noted that ACCI aims to strengthen connections between businesses in the Federal Capital Territory and the broader national and international trade scene.

He said the Chamber can create a platform for businesses to share experiences with the NPA, while the authority can inform them about port operations, trade facilitation efforts, and opportunities in the maritime sector.

“We commend the Nigerian Ports Authority for participating in this year’s Abuja International Trade Fair and for using the NPA Day to engage directly with the organized private sector.

“We see this participation not merely as an exhibition opportunity, but as an important platform for dialogue, stakeholder engagement and partnership,” Jideani said.

The ACCI DG expressed readiness to deepen collaboration with the NPA through policy discussions, business forums, training programs, and other partnerships that will benefit trade.

Jideani said this partnership is crucial as businesses look for better market access, stronger supply chains, and a friendlier trade environment.

Abuja International Trade Fair

Mr Jideani emphasized that the Abuja International Trade Fair is an ideal platform for boosting interactions among businesses, government agencies, investors, financial institutions, and development partners.

He stated that the AITF is a practical expression of the Chamber’s mission to promote trade, investment, and sustainable economic growth.

“The AITF brings together businesses, investors, government agencies, diplomatic missions, financial institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to showcase products and services, establish business connections, explore markets and discuss issues affecting the economy,” he said.

Jideani added that stronger collaborations between institutions like the NPA and the organized private sector are key to improving Nigeria’s trade environment.

“As we celebrate the 21st edition under the theme ‘Resilience, Trade, Taxation and the Economy,’ we recognize that stronger collaboration between institutions such as the NPA and the organized private sector is essential to improving the ease of doing business, strengthening supply chains and enhancing Nigeria’s participation in domestic, regional and international trade,” he said.

He praised the NPA for taking part in the 21st AITF, calling it a chance to improve understanding and promote dialogue between the maritime sector and the wider business community.

Jideani expressed hope for a stronger relationship with the NPA that would support businesses, enhance trade, and create new economic opportunities.

“We look forward to building an even stronger and more sustained partnership that will support businesses, facilitate trade, create opportunities, and contribute to the growth and competitiveness of the Nigerian economy,” he said.