Lagos Sets Sights on Lekki Port Expansion as Trade Demand Grows

Less than five years after the Lekki Deep Sea Port began operations, Lagos is preparing to launch Phase 2 of the project, a move that highlights the port’s rapid growth and Nigeria’s increasing relevance in Africa’s expanding trade network.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the planned expansion at the Invest Lagos Summit 3.0, describing it as part of a wider infrastructure drive aimed at strengthening Lagos’ position as West Africa’s leading maritime and logistics hub.

The decision comes as the port approaches the limits of its installed capacity, prompting plans for the next stage of development far sooner than many anticipated.

Sanwo-Olu linked the expansion to opportunities emerging from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which connects a market of more than 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion.

“With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) creating a market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion, Lagos occupies a uniquely strategic position. The Lekki Deep Sea Port, within five years, is moving to phase two because it is almost reaching the full potential of its installed capacity and just within five years, it is moving to phase two,” he said.

According to the governor, the project forms part of a broader infrastructure agenda already being executed across the state.

“These are not just aspirations but projects that have been implemented and are under implementation. They have been funded, progressing, and transforming the investment landscape of our State,” he said.

When completed, Phase 2 is expected to increase cargo-handling capacity, improve maritime trade activities and further strengthen Lagos’ role as a gateway to African markets under the AfCFTA framework.

Managing Director of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang, said the expansion reflects growing confidence in Lagos as a destination for long-term maritime investment.

“We are deeply encouraged by the continued support of the Lagos State Government, whose infrastructure-led policies have created a stable and forward-looking environment for long-term maritime investment,” Qiang said.

He described the next phase as a major milestone in the port’s development.

“The commencement of the next phase of development represents a significant milestone in our journey to expand capacity, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen Lekki Port’s position as a premier gateway for West African trade under the AfCFTA framework,” he added.

Qiang noted that the expansion will improve logistics efficiency along the Lekki corridor, increase operational capacity and attract additional global shipping and logistics investments.

The project aligns with Nigeria’s trade facilitation goals and is expected to support rising regional and international shipping demand. For Lagos, it represents another step in consolidating its status as one of Africa’s most important commercial and maritime gateways.