NPA to launch port community system in Q1 2026, says Dantsoho

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) says it will launch the port community system (PCS) in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026 as part of efforts to build a globally competitive port system that enhances trade facilitation and attracts investment.

Abubakar Dantsoho, NPA managing director (MD), spoke during a presentation titled “Optimising Nigeria’s Port Infrastructure, Enhancing Trade Facilitation and Global Competitiveness” at the ongoing United Nations general assembly (UNGA).

Dantsoho said the PCS would serve as a digital and collaborative platform connecting stakeholders, data, and transactions to improve the authority’s digital footprint.

“We look forward to continued collaboration to achieve these goals,” the MD said.

“NPA is also implementing a digital, collaborative, and all-encompassing platform connecting stakeholders, data, transactions, and initiatives to improve NPA’s digital footprint.

“This platform (Port Community System) was seen as viable in the first quarter of 2026.”

He said efficiency gains across seaports have contributed to a 19.6 percent growth in non-oil exports in the first half of 2025, adding that the adoption of paperless processes has helped reduce waste.

“The NPA is using smart digitalisation to achieve lean and green operations,” Dantsoho said.

“We have deployed a new electronic barrier system at all Lagos port complex terminals to improve traffic and control access.

“This system is integrated with the Eto electronic call-up system’ (a call-up truck system developed in collaboration with several truck parks) manages truck entry and eases congestion.”

He added that the authority is introducing e-tag verification, joint boarding applications, and other electronic systems to optimise cargo processes and reduce dwell time.

On sustainability, the managing director said NPA is improving intermodal connectivity to reduce reliance on road transport, cut emissions, and boost operational efficiency.

“We are currently working on automating our barge, truck, and railway applications,” he added.

Speaking on emission reduction, Dantsoho said the authority is leading efforts on shore-to-ship emission cuts, beginning with Lekki port.

He added that the agency is also driving a collaborative one-stop shop (OSS) for refined oil exports and local crude payments to ensure seamless approvals and boost government revenue.

‘NPA COMMITTED TO MODERNISING INFRASTRUCTURE’

Highlighting the Lekki deep seaport’s ability to handle super post-panamax vessels, Dantsoho described it as vital for achieving economies of scale and enhancing Nigeria’s export competitiveness.

“We have commissioned and dedicated a state-of-the-art fleet of tug boats and allied marine crafts to service the ever-growing operations at the Lekki deep seaport, the Dangote refinery, which is the largest single-train refinery in the world and the Dangote fertiliser plant, which is the largest granulated urea fertiliser plant in Africa,” he said.

The MD added that NPA remains committed to modernising seaport infrastructure and streamlining services.