Lekki Port Dominates Nigeria's Ports with Record Vessel Calls and Cargo Throughput

Nigeria's ports recorded a significant increase in vessel calls in the first half of 2026, with 2,152 ships docked at various ports across the country. This represents a 6.9% rise from the same period last year.

Lekki Port emerged as the standout performer, handling 48.4% of all vessels and nearly 40% of total national cargo throughput during this period. The port's growth can be attributed largely to operations at the Dangote Refinery, which accounted for 76% of total cargo traffic recorded at the port.

The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, attributed the success of Lekki Port to its strong operational capabilities and strategic location. He also noted that Onne Port posted a significant growth in vessel calls, with a 26.6% rise supported by LNG exports.

The NPA's half-year performance scorecard shows that gross registered earnings climbed to 96,693,108 from 79,981,595 recorded in the first half of 2025, representing a 20.9% jump.