The Federal Government has begun the process of transferring inland dry port-related functions from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to the Nigerian Ports Authority as part of reforms to streamline Nigeria’s port administration.
The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) and the Nigerian Ports Authority have commenced technical discussions on the transition, focusing on clearly defining responsibilities and preventing duplication among government agencies.
The move follows a directive by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, after President Bola Tinubu assented to the NPERA Act 2026. The reform is intended to separate port economic regulation from infrastructure development and operational functions.
NPERA Director-General Akutah Pius said cooperation among the relevant agencies would be essential to ensure a smooth transition. The agency said the process should strengthen coordination and support the development of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
Inland dry ports are important to Nigeria’s trade infrastructure because they provide cargo handling, customs clearance and related services away from seaports, helping to connect businesses and importers in landlocked commercial areas to international trade routes.
The restructuring is expected to clarify institutional responsibilities and improve efficiency in the management of inland cargo facilities, while supporting the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s logistics and maritime sectors.
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