Full Breakdown
Lekki Deep-Sea Port Transforms Nigeria's Maritime Landscape
12/20/2025, 11:38:41 AM
Rapid Rise in Trade Value
Lekki Deep-Sea Port, which commenced commercial operations in 2023, has quickly established itself as Nigeria's second-largest port in terms of trade value. According to Nigeria’s official “Trade by Top 10 Posts/Ports of Operation” data for January to September, Lekki Port's trade value reached nearly $93 billion, significantly surpassing that of established competitors like Tin Can Island Port, which recorded approximately 9.31 trillion naira, and Onne Port with 6.76 trillion naira. Apapa Port remains the dominant facility in the country, but Lekki's rapid ascent is noteworthy for a port so new to the market.
Wang Qiang, Managing Director of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited, attributed this growth to increasing confidence from global shipping lines and cargo owners. He noted that container volumes have risen steadily, allowing the port to achieve around half of its designed capacity sooner than anticipated. Key factors contributing to this success include the port's deeper draught, automation, and capability to handle larger vessels. Captain Jedrzej Mierzewski, CEO of Lekki Freeport Terminal, described the trade figures as unprecedented in Nigeria's maritime history, particularly given the port's limited operational history compared to its rivals.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Challenges
Despite the positive trade figures, executives at Lekki Port emphasized that sustained growth is contingent upon improvements in hinterland connectivity. Wang highlighted the necessity of completing major infrastructure projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and expanding rail links, to support the increasing industrial activity along the Lekki corridor. He warned that without these enhancements, trade bottlenecks could continue to hinder operations, even with the port's advanced automation.
Additionally, the need for digital integration among government agencies was flagged as a critical area for improvement. While Lekki Port operates fully automatically, delays in cargo clearance processes persist due to a lack of integrated digital systems among agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service.
Future Policy Recommendations
Looking ahead, Mierzewski called on the Nigerian Federal Government to consider policy changes by 2026 that would streamline the tax regime for importers and exporters. He suggested adopting international practices, such as Germany's 30-day value-added tax payment window post-cargo clearance, as a model to enhance efficiency and boost investment confidence in Nigerian ports.
Criticism & Opposition
While the rapid growth of Lekki Port is celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on automation and large-scale operations may overlook the need for comprehensive support systems, including adequate road and rail infrastructure. There are concerns that without addressing these foundational issues, the port's potential may not be fully realized.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The pace of growth underscores how quickly the market is recognising the value of modern infrastructure,” — Wang Qiang, Managing Director of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited
- “Without such enhancements, he warned, trade bottlenecks could persist despite the port’s automation.” — Wang Qiang, Managing Director of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited
- “Looking ahead to policy changes in 2026, Mierzewski urged the Federal Government to streamline the tax regime applicable to importers and exporters.” — Captain Jedrzej Mierzewski, CEO of Lekki Freeport Terminal
