The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade facilitation, boosting export competitiveness, and enhancing ease of doing business as it marked its “NPA Special Day” at the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, represented by the Executive Director, Engineering & Technical Services, Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar—commended the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) for sustaining a culture of hospitality and business friendliness that continues to attract global participation and investment.
He noted that the fair has remained a vital platform for deepening economic prosperity and showcasing opportunities within Nigeria’s business landscape.
Inviting investors and traders to explore the numerous growth avenues available through the Authority, Dantsoho highlighted the transformational impact of the Export Process Terminals (EPTs), established in partnership with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The EPTs serve as one-stop centres for the stuffing, packaging, and certification of export-bound cargo—drastically reducing delays, eliminating bureaucratic overlaps, and boosting the competitiveness of Nigerian exports.
He explained that the EPTs are being linked with Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) to strengthen port-hinterland connectivity. This synergy, he said, will open the export value chain to more Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to contribute meaningfully to job creation and economic diversification.
Aligned with the Federal Government’s ease of doing business agenda, the NPA is driving full port automation through the Ports Community System (PCS), laying the foundation for the National Single Window (NSW). This digital ecosystem will connect all trade stakeholders—shipping lines, terminal operators, customs, regulatory agencies, and logistics providers—for seamless, real-time interaction at the push of a button.
Describing the fair’s theme, “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value,” as fully aligned with NPA’s corporate aspirations, Dantsoho assured stakeholders that the Authority remains open to strategic partnerships beyond the trade fair.
He encouraged visitors to engage the NPA business development team at the fairground and explore the Authority’s interactive website for more information on its services and investment opportunities.
“Our doors remain open for collaboration. We invite all stakeholders to leverage the platforms and innovations we are deploying to drive national growth,” he said.
