The Federal Government has approved the maintenance dredging of the $1.5 billion Lekki Deep Seaport channel, increasing its depth from 16.5 to 17 metres, with a long-term target of 19 metres.

This was disclosed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello-Koko, in a statement issued by the General Manager, Communications and Strategy, Mr. Okechukwu Onyemekara, following a weekend inspection.

Dantsoho urged the management of Lekki Port to boost transshipment operations, especially in support of neighbouring landlocked countries.

He highlighted the steady rise in cargo throughput, describing it as an encouraging sign of the port’s growing relevance in the regional and global logistics landscape.

Lekki Port’s ability to berth super post-Panamax vessels enhances cargo handling efficiency and vessel turnaround time, strengthening Nigeria’s export position under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The port’s performance has not only supported regional maritime needs but also aligned with the NPA’s drive to achieve scale-efficiency and increase forex inflows, ultimately improving Nigeria’s trade surplus.

Dantsoho expressed optimism that the port’s export volumes would soon double or triple, further advancing national economic objectives.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s and NPA’s commitment to sustaining this growth and enhancing operational support.

He noted that the dredging approval by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, followed the NPA’s recommendation.

A strategic partnership has been signed with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to execute the dredging, which is expected to bolster trade facilitation.

Dantsoho described Lekki Port as Nigeria’s newest and most advanced seaport, capable of integrating with a National Single Window system through the development of a port community system.

He stressed the need for full digitalisation across Nigerian ports, noting that key tools such as navigation buoys and tugboats are priced in US dollars and require sustained procurement.

The NPA, he added, has awarded a channel survey contract to ensure compliance with international navigation standards and enhance efficiency.

Dantsoho said that full implementation of a paperless Single Window system could triple port revenue and eliminate unofficial payments, thereby improving transparency.

At that point, he noted, the NPA could consider lowering Ship Dues to support maritime businesses.

During the visit, Lekki Port’s Managing Director, Wang Qiang, presented several policy requests, including tariff reviews to reflect inflation and service costs, reduced dues for larger vessels, and the introduction of night pilotage to enable 24-hour operations.

Dantsoho also visited the $19.5 billion Dangote Petrochemicals Refinery, located nearby.