The Nigerian government has announced plans to increase the dredging depth of the $1.5 billion Lekki Deep Seaport from the initial 16.5 metres to 17 metres, with an ultimate target of reaching 19 metres depth.

This announcement was made by the Managing Director of the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho, during his maiden visit to the port facility accompanied by other NPA management staff.

Dantsoho expressed excitement over the increasing throughput volume at the Lekki Port, highlighting its capacity to berth super post-panamax vessels and deliver rapid cargo and vessel turnaround as a "game-changer" for Nigeria's export competitiveness, particularly for agro-allied products, as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gains momentum.

"The efficiency of the port is driving constant increases in transhipment numbers, thereby meeting the maritime needs of neighbouring countries and supporting NPA's goal of achieving economies of scale," Dantsoho stated, adding that this development is fueling competitiveness in the maritime sector.

According to the NPA boss, unlike in the past, revenue from port activities is now boosting foreign exchange inflows and has contributed significantly to Nigeria's year-on-year trade surplus, thereby reinforcing the national economy.

He expressed optimism that export figures will rise, with export volumes potentially doubling or tripling in the near future. Dantsoho affirmed the commitment of the Port Authority management to do its professional best, with the support of the Federal Government, to ensure that revenue and work volumes continue to increase.

"We are doing about five things to ensure this trend continues. Number one, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, with the recommendation of the Nigerian Port Authority, has secured approval for the dredging of the channel at Lekki Port," he explained.

"This is something that we have been working towards, something that we've been discussing for almost two or three years. And finally, we give God the glory that it has happened," Dantsoho added.

The NPA has also syndicated a strategic partnership agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to undertake the dredging in the interest of trade facilitation and to enhance the relationship and strengthen the partnership in a concerted bid to grow Nigeria's trade volumes.

Dantsoho further noted that the Lekki Port is well-automated with the latest technology in place to drive the activities of the port, positioning it as a modern maritime facility capable of meeting international standards.

The development of the Lekki Deep Seaport is expected to significantly boost Nigeria's maritime sector and strengthen the country's position as a key player in regional and international trade.