The Federal Government has approved the maintenance dredging of the $1.5 billion Lekki Deep Seaport channel, a move aimed at expanding its depth from the current 16.5 meters to an initial 17 meters, with long-term plans to reach 19 meters.
The announcement was made during the maiden official visit of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Managing Director, Abubakar Dantsoho, to Lekki Port over the weekend.
He was accompanied by members of the NPA’s senior management team.
Dantsoho highlighted the growing throughput at the port and emphasized its strategic value in driving Nigeria’s trade capacity, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to the NPA MD, “Lekki Port’s capacity to berth super post-panamax vessels and deliver quick turnaround times is central to improving Nigeria’s export performance, especially for agro-allied goods.”
Dantsoho disclosed that the NPA, with the endorsement of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, secured federal approval for the dredging project.
The contract for the dredging has been awarded to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), marking a significant collaboration aimed at strengthening ties with Lekki Port’s stakeholders.
“This is a project we have discussed for years, and it is gratifying that it is now set to begin,” he said.
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Beyond the dredging plans, the NPA boss also touched on the port’s technological infrastructure, stating that Lekki Port is already aligned with modern digital expectations and is well-positioned for integration into the national Port Community System and the forthcoming National Single Window.
He added that the contract for the hydrographic survey of the channel has also been awarded to support better channel management and optimization.
Dantsoho addressed a request from Lekki Port for a reduction in ship dues. While acknowledging the concern, he explained that the NPA must continue investing in dollar-denominated equipment, including tug boats and navigational aids, to sustain efficient port operations.
He noted that a reduction in ship dues could become more viable once the full implementation of the National Single Window significantly improves port revenue collection by minimizing unreceipted transactions.
During the visit, Dantsoho also commended the Lekki Port management for sustained operational performance and reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to supporting its growth.
Earlier in the visit, Wang Qiang, Managing Director of Lekki Port, presented a list of policy requests, including tariff adjustments, a reduction in ship dues for large vessels and feeders, and the provision of Night Pilotage Services to allow 24-hour port operations.
Dantsoho also made a stop at the $19.5 billion Dangote Petrochemicals Refinery, where he met with industrialist Aliko Dangote.