The Nigerian Ports Authority Implements Tariff Hike to Enhance Infrastructure and Equipment
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has recently announced that it has received the necessary approvals to increase its tariffs in order to enhance infrastructure and upgrade equipment.
During a maritime stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the NPA, shared this development. This adjustment, the first since 1993, is aimed at improving the operational efficiency of Nigerian ports.
Dantsoho, represented by Olalekan Badmus, the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the NPA, highlighted the importance of operational revenue for port authorities globally. He explained that the 15% tariff increase across all NPA Rates and Dues is crucial to address the challenges of aging infrastructure, outdated equipment, and slow port capacity expansion that have been affecting the performance and competitiveness of Nigerian ports.
Port authorities are responsible for various tasks such as constructing and maintaining infrastructure, dredging shipping channels, providing aids for safe navigation, and offering modern marine vessels for efficient harbor operations. Additionally, they play a role in automating and digitizing port processes, ensuring port security, enhancing energy efficiency, and facilitating employee training.
With the rapidly changing global economy and increasing competition from neighboring countries, it is imperative for Nigeria to regain its competitive edge in cargo handling. The tariff adjustments will help fund the deployment of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure necessary for the Port Community System (PCS) and the National Single Window (NSW).
