Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has expressed worry that Nigeria currently handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in the region, even though it accounts for over 60 per cent of West Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

This was as Dantsoho assured investors that the tide was turning, as the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, was implementing far-reaching reforms to reposition the sector.

Dantsoho, while speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, stressed that Nigeria’s port system would play a pivotal role in unlocking strategic investments and accelerating economic growth.

He assured investors that Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy, citing ongoing Federal Government reforms and increased private sector participation as critical drivers of transformation in the maritime sector.

“It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic.

This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

The NPA boss explained that Nigeria’s strategic location, large population and economic strength position it to become a maritime hub for West Africa, comparable to global leaders such as Singapore and Morocco.

Also speaking, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, said Nigeria’s natural endowments, including its 823-kilometre coastline and extensive inland waterways, placed it in a strong position to lead the sector.