Federal government to commence maintenance dredging at Lekki Deep SeaportThe Nigerian Ports Authority has announced that preparations are underway to begin maintenance dredging of the \$1.5 billion Lekki Deep Seaport channel. NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, revealed this during his first official visit to the port in Lagos.
Dantsoho encouraged the port’s management to build on its transshipment activities targeting landlocked neighboring countries, noting the increase in volume as a positive indicator. He described Lekki’s capacity to handle super post-panamax vessels as crucial to improving Nigeria’s export potential, particularly in agro-allied products, under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He confirmed that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, had approved the dredging contract, which will be executed by China Harbour Engineering Company, following recommendations by the NPA.Dantsoho emphasized that the project aims to boost transshipment efficiency and meet the maritime needs of surrounding countries. He said the improvements will strengthen Nigeria’s trade performance, increase foreign exchange inflows, and expand export volumes.
He also commended Lekki Port’s technological infrastructure, stating that it aligns with future plans for the Port Community Systems and the National Single Window initiative.Earlier, Lekki Port Managing Director Wang Qiang called for tariff structure adjustments, reduced ship dues for large vessels, and night pilotage services to support 24-hour operations and enhance competitiveness.
Source: https://punchng.com/
