Nigeria is preparing for a major upgrade of its busiest seaports following a £746 million financing deal with the United Kingdom, a move that could reshape how trade flows in and out of the country.
The agreement, backed by UK Export Finance (UKEF), will focus on modernising the Lagos Port Complex in Apapa and the Tin Can Island Port Complex, two facilities that handle more than 70% of Nigeria’s imports and exports. The development was disclosed in a statement by Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and is expected to be formally signed during a state visit to London on March 18 and 19, 2026.
For years, these ports have carried the weight of Nigeria’s trade but have struggled with congestion, delays, and outdated systems. Despite their importance, both facilities have not kept pace with the demands of modern global shipping. The Lagos Port Complex, established in 1913, remains the country’s oldest and busiest seaport, while Tin Can Island Port, built in 1977 to support it, has also faced similar pressure over time.This new investment is designed to change that story.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, described the agreement as a defining moment for Nigeria’s maritime sector, noting that what is planned goes far beyond routine upgrades. According to him, this will be the first full-scale overhaul of the ports since they were built, with the goal of bringing them in line with international standards.
The modernisation plan includes the introduction of advanced cargo-handling systems, expansion of port capacity, and the rollout of digital operations to reduce manual processes. These changes are expected to tackle long-standing bottlenecks that slow down movement at the ports.
With improved systems in place, vessel turnaround time is expected to drop significantly, while cargo will spend less time sitting at the ports. This means goods can move faster, businesses can operate more efficiently, and the overall cost of logistics could reduce. Increased efficiency and transparency are also expected to improve confidence in Nigeria’s port operations.
This project is widely seen as the largest port upgrade effort in nearly 50 years, reflecting how critical the moment is for Nigeria’s trade infrastructure. Beyond the physical improvements, it also signals stronger economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, especially in the areas of infrastructure development and trade. Currently, trade between both countries stands at about £8.1 billion annually.
At its core, this is about positioning Nigeria for the future. Efficient ports are central to economic growth, and with this level of investment, the country is taking a decisive step towards advancement.
If delivered as planned, the transformation of Apapa and Tin Can ports could mark the beginning of a new era, one where Nigeria’s gateways to global trade reflect the country’s true capacity and ambition. Beyond easing congestion, this upgrade positions Nigeria to take its rightful place as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa, unlocking stronger trade flows, attracting investment, and reinforcing its role at the centre of regional commerce.
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