Nigeria's non-oil exporters have accused the Nigerian Ports Authority of causing delays by switching to manual approval processes, according to a report by BusinessDay. The change has reportedly slowed the export of goods, affecting trade efficiency.
The Nigerian Ports Authority has been criticized for its shift from automated to manual systems, which has led to longer processing times. This has raised concerns among traders who rely on timely exports to meet international market demands.
Lekki Port, one of the country's major seaports, is currently operating at full capacity, highlighting the growing strain on Nigeria's port infrastructure. Experts suggest that the lack of new port facilities is exacerbating the problem, as existing ports struggle to handle increasing cargo volumes.
The situation reflects broader challenges in Nigeria's logistics sector, where outdated infrastructure and bureaucratic hurdles continue to hinder economic growth. With the country's economy heavily dependent on trade, the inefficiencies at ports are seen as a critical bottleneck.
The need for new seaports has been emphasized by officials, including former minister Dantsoho, who has called for urgent investment in port expansion to support economic development. However, progress on such projects has been slow, leaving exporters to navigate a complex and often frustrating system.
