Nigerian Ports Authority Increases Port Charges By 15%—First Hike In 32 Years
stakeholders’ meeting, NPA’s Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Mr. Olalekan Badmus, who represented Managing Director Mohammed Bello-Koko, explained that the adjustment was necessary to bring Nigerian ports up to international standards.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced plans to increase its charges by 15 per cent, marking the first tariff adjustment in over three decades.
Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of NPA, disclosed this development during a maritime stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos on Thursday.
He stated that the rate review was necessary to enhance competitiveness and fund infrastructural upgrades at the nation’s ports, News Agency of Nigeria reports.
“This is the first time since 1993 that we are adjusting our tariffs. The review is aimed at improving service delivery and maintaining global standards in port operations,” Dantsoho said.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, NPA’s Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Mr. Olalekan Badmus, who represented Managing Director Mohammed Bello-Koko, explained that the adjustment was necessary to bring Nigerian ports up to international standards.
“Although the Federal Government has already approved the rate review, the NPA management felt it was important to engage stakeholders before implementation,” Badmus said.
He noted that the increase, which applies across all NPA charges, was driven by the deteriorating condition of port infrastructure and outdated equipment that have hampered efficiency and competitiveness.
“NPA relies on revenue from port operations to fulfill its responsibilities, including infrastructure maintenance, dredging of channels, provision of navigation aids, acquisition of modern marine equipment, digitization of port processes, and ensuring security,” he added.
Maritime expert Mr. Joshua Asanga acknowledged the concerns surrounding the rate hike but pointed out that inflation—currently around 35%—has eroded the real value of NPA’s tariffs.
“For over 30 years, costs related to wages, fuel, and other operational expenses have increased without a corresponding adjustment in NPA charges,” Asanga noted.
He stressed the need for adequate funding to enhance port infrastructure, improve ICT systems for the Port Community, and procure essential equipment like tugboats to ensure smooth operations.
Meanwhile, Mr. Demian Ukagu urged NPA to allocate more resources to developing outer port facilities and jetties, such as the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, to improve overall efficiency.
He argued that NPA rates should reflect the costs of maintaining these facilities while ensuring sustainable trade.
However, at the end of the meeting, stakeholders acknowledged that the existing tariff structure had not factored in critical expenses such as capital investment, labor costs, and operational overheads.
