What is the NPA's role in inland dry ports?

The NPA is now responsible for the operational oversight of inland dry ports to improve their integration into the national port system and enhance logistics.

What are the main challenges facing inland dry ports?

Key challenges include inadequate rail connectivity, broader logistics constraints, and the need for infrastructure upgrades and technical capacity enhancement.

Nigerian Ports Authority to Enhance Inland Dry Port Logistics

The NPA is taking over operational oversight of inland dry ports to improve rail connectivity and cargo movement, following a directive from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

2026-10-12 · Updated 2026-10-12

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is set to address critical rail connectivity and logistics challenges impacting inland dry ports across the country. This initiative aims to integrate these facilities into the national port system and streamline cargo movement.

The move follows a directive from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, transferring the operational oversight of inland dry ports to the NPA. The NPA management, led by Managing Director Abubakar Dantsoho, met with representatives from Dala Inland Dry Port and Funtua Inland Dry Port to discuss these improvements.

Discussions centered on enhancing institutional collaboration, resolving infrastructure constraints, and boosting operational efficiency within Nigeria's maritime logistics chain. Dantsoho emphasized the need to upgrade the infrastructure and technical capacity of inland dry ports to match the modernization efforts at the nation's seaports.

He stressed that these facilities must be equipped to handle increasing cargo volumes and integrate digital platforms like the Port Community System (PCS) and the National Single Window. Dantsoho also called for increased private sector investment to improve cargo handling capacity and operational efficiency.

The NPA plans to visit the Dala and Funtua inland dry ports to assess their operational conditions and infrastructure needs. These visits are expected to clarify the challenges and interventions required to strengthen the role of these ports in cargo distribution and trade facilitation.

FAQ

What is the NPA's role in inland dry ports?: The NPA is now responsible for the operational oversight of inland dry ports to improve their integration into the national port system and enhance logistics.
What are the main challenges facing inland dry ports?: Key challenges include inadequate rail connectivity, broader logistics constraints, and the need for infrastructure upgrades and technical capacity enhancement.