Headlines

The thriving business of corruption at Nigerian ports

Uchechi Dibiaezue

As evidenced by the Nigerian port systems, corruption often arises from inefficient systems.

Inter-agency coordination and process modernization can curb corruption to a significant extent.

There are key indications that poor policy directives and procedures impede the ease of doing business at ports, thereby making it difficult to combat corruption.

As a Nigeria-based compliance professional, I know this firsthand – and the example of Nigerian ports can inform others monitoring global supply chains.

Corruption often occurs alongside a failure to bring transparency to the system.

This failure has become a notorious gateway that facilitates the giving and taking of bribes by public officials and other individuals working within the Nigerian ports.

Corruption is a self-serving cash cow for those raking in millions of naira from port operations.

But new strategies and methods to prevent corruption, including introducing technology into the mix, are expected to make a huge difference in reducing corruption and increasing efficiency at Nigeria‘s busiest ports.

A Robust Corruption Strategy

Many inefficiencies exist in service delivery within the ports that offer opportunities for public officers to engage in illegitimate transactions for monetary gain.

For example, public officials of government agencies working and operating within the ports prefer to physically examine cargo instead of using scanners.

To circumvent this inefficient approach, bribes are offered to public officers enforcing these tedious processes.

Another conduit for corruption is the mode of cargo inspection.

Public officials are mandated to routinely board vessels that berth at the ports. However, for years, multiple agencies have carried out inspections in an unplanned manner.

Each agency determines when to carry out an inspection process rather than collaborate with other agencies to undertake one inspection process.

So, a ship undergoes several inspection checks by different agencies inspecting cargo at their own time and pace. This inefficient procedure causes inordinate delays.

Many ship captains prefer to offer bribes or other forms of gifts to public officials to circumvent this cumbersome and inefficient process.

These examples illustrate how poor policy directives create lucrative avenues for the giving and taking of bribes.

One may, therefore, suggest that a new policy directive will bolster better service delivery, as well as improve efforts to tackle corruption in the ports.

A 2014 corruption risk assessment at the Nigerian ports of Onne, Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Apapa and Tin Can, it was discovered that a lack of awareness of operating procedures by users (agents, exporters, importers) was a driving force in corruption.

Visitors to the ports do not always know the official timelines for services offered by port operators, so it is often impossible to know the actual waiting time before receiving the service, or even the relevant documents to be submitted to obtain a service.

Most port users rely heavily on public officials, oftentimes unscrupulous ones, to transact business within the ports. The result is that various countries, companies and state authorities become active participants in acts of bribery.

A Purposeful Rein on Corruption

In a bid to bridge the knowledge gap, a single process card, the Nigerian Port Process Manual (NPPM), was funded and developed by the Nigerian Ports Authority.

This manual was launched for use on December 9, 2020, with the Nigerian Shippers Council as the lead implementation agency.

The manual describes the services offered by port operators so that anyone visiting the ports can follow effortlessly.

It outlines and guides users by highlighting all required documentation, procedural steps, payments, timelines and the responsible agencies for each process in the port.

This manual boosts public awareness and understanding of port procedures, thereby encouraging efficiency and accountability.

It should also reduce incidents of bribery, as port users know the various agencies charge of specific services, eliminating the middlemen in the system.

Key benefits of the NPPM include:

1. It facilitates a mechanized approach in conducting business at the ports in line with global best practices rather than the inefficient analog procedures in use.

Key stakeholders in the ports, including the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), reached an agreement to implement measures that will minimize direct human contact onboard vessels calling at the Nigerian ports in line with the provisions of the NPPM.

2. It ensures coordination and cooperation between government agencies at the ports.

Before the launch of the NPPM, foreign ships and the international community calling at the ports complained of delays and huge costs incurred because of separate boarding and inspection by ports authorities.

To address the complaints and utilize the NPPM effectively, the NSC, NPA, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Port Health and the Department of State Security Service (DSS) all agreed to collaborate and jointly inspect vessels calling on Nigeria.

3. The manual supports the introduction of new technology at the ports to curb illegal activities and rid the ports of corruption, including an electronic call-up system to reduce traffic congestion at the ports.

Especially in ports and off-dock terminals with heavy vehicular and human traffic, Apapa and Tin Can, the two busiest ports in Nigeria, will be a big improvement.

For years, a manual truck scheduling arrangement has been in use. However, in February 2021, the NPA came up with an electronic truck call-up system to deal with the recurrent traffic gridlock responsible for delays along the access roads leading to these ports.

The truck call-up system, also known as Eto, which means “to schedule” in the Yoruba language, is now used for access to the port for cargo trucks and by shipping companies to transfer empty containers.

It is important to note that the Nigerian Port Process Manual will help reduce corruption as it pushes for greater cooperation and collaboration among the various government agencies working in the country’s ports.

These collaborative efforts can drive down the rates of giving and taking bribes significantly with the integration of technology alongside other policy directives to improve service delivery. It will attract more business to the ports as compliance boosts efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Uchechi Dibiaezue is a member of the A&E Law Partnership Compliance, Ethics and Integrity Support practice as well as the Regulatory and Institutional reform team. She is an attorney with over 18 years of legal practice experience.

Headlines

Yinka Onigbinde election as MARAN president excites SIFAX Group

– pledges support for his administration

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter

The SIFAX Group has congratulated Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde on his election as the new President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).

The Group described his emergence as a reflection of his professionalism and dedication to maritime journalism.

The congratulatory message was conveyed in a formal letter signed by Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group, on behalf of the Board, Management, and Staff of the conglomerate.

In the letter, Dr. Afolabi described Mr. Onigbinde’s election as well-deserved, noting that his consistent contributions to maritime journalism and the broader maritime industry over the years had earned him the confidence of his colleagues.

“Your emergence as the President is proof of your professionalism, dedication, and consistent contributions to maritime journalism and the broader maritime industry over the years,” Afolabi stated.

Afolabi expressed confidence that the association would continue to advance the ideals of professionalism, ethical journalism, unity, and constructive engagement within the maritime sector under Onigbinde’s leadership.

He further noted that the new president’s tenure was expected to strengthen the media’s role as a vital partner in the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Afolabi, who serves as Patron of MARAN, assured Onigbinde of his goodwill and support as the new president works towards advancing the association, while wishing him wisdom, strength, and outstanding success in the discharge of his duties.

Headlines

The Billion-Naira Ballot: Can digital primaries finally cure Nigeria’s “Delegate Disease”?

MONDAY DISCOURSE with NASIRU

“Whatever is hidden by the fog of political intrigue is eventually revealed by the light of the ballot.”

This maxim captures the true essence of Nigeria’s current political transformation as we navigate the high-stakes journey toward 2027.

In May 2026, the landscape is defined by a massive administrative and financial pivot, where the intersection of a record-breaking ₦1 trillion election budget and the mandatory shift to digital democracy has created a fortress that is reshaping how power is won and funded.

This record allocation, driven by a ₦1.01 trillion statutory transfer to INEC, represents a massive liquidity injection that is both a logistical necessity and a significant inflationary risk.

High inflation, reaching 23.7% in April, has drastically increased the costs of logistics, while over ₦209 billion is earmarked for technological integrity, including a massive overhaul of 200,000 BVAS units to ensure the digital transparency mandated by the Electoral Act 2026.

The 15 year reliance on the “delegate system” has officially been abolished, replaced by a revolution that permits only two nomination modes: Direct Primaries or Consensus. This shift to a “one member, one vote” system is intended to curb the influence of “Money Bags” and “Ghana-Must-Go” politics by moving power from a few thousand delegates to millions of registered party members.

However, this democratic ideal has birthed an operational nightmare for party administrations, who must now fund ward-level voting for their entire memberships. This strain has led to skyrocketing nomination fees, with the APC presidential ticket pegged at ₦100 million just to cover these new logistics.

Consequently, while the concentrated delegate market has vanished, political spending has merely decentralized, forcing aspirants to “induce” thousands of voters across every ward in the country.

A new digital arms race has emerged under Section 77 of the 2026 Act, which requires parties to submit a digital membership register linked to NINs to INEC at least 21 days before any primary.

The ruling APC has already registered over 12 million members online, claiming a head start in digital compliance. In contrast, the opposition has undergone a seismic shift; on Sunday, May 3, 2026, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). This “NDC Surge” has reportedly seen over 10 million Nigerians register with the party within its first 24 hours, as Obi cited the “toxic” environment and endless litigation within the ADC as his reason for seeking a more stable platform.

The NDC, led by former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson, is now the primary challenger racing to consolidate its digital register before the looming May primary deadlines.

Beyond the internal party mechanics, the broader economic impact is staggering. The election budget contributes significantly to a ₦23.85 trillion deficit in the 2026 budget, narrowing the fiscal space for long-term development.

Economists, including the Central Bank Governor, have warned that this ₦1 trillion injection poses a severe inflationary risk that could destabilize ongoing reforms. Furthermore, the government has set aside ₦135.22 billion specifically for electoral adjudication, signaling an expectation of intense post-election litigation.

As we move toward the off-cycle governorship tests in Ekiti and Osun states, the question remains: is Nigeria ready for the transparency of a unified digital window, or will the costs of this “Digital Democracy” bankrupt the very system it seeks to save?

Chief Ibrahim Nasiru, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja

Headlines

Sustained government expansion project, infrastructural development drive port growth trajectory in Qi, 2026

– as NPA records 46.75m GRT

‎Funso OLOJO, Editor

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‎Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded strong operational growth in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) for ocean-going vessels rising by 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million.

This growth underscores the increasing dominance of larger-capacity ships across the nation’s ports amid ongoing reforms targeted at positioning the country as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

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‎According to the Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the rise in vessel tonnage signals improved cargo-carrying efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports.

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‎The report noted that the development reflects a strategic shift toward larger and more efficient vessels, driven partly by the operational impact of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and expanding trade demand.

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‎The strong performance comes at a time the federal government is intensifying efforts to modernise Nigeria’s port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency and capture a larger share of regional cargo flows under AfCFTA.

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‎Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, had recently said Nigeria’s ports must evolve beyond traditional limitations if the country hopes to compete effectively in a rapidly integrating African market.

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‎Speaking at an industry forum in Lagos, Dantsoho said efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability would determine which countries dominate cargo flows in the new continental trade environment.

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‎“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources.

” Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.

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‎Total cargo throughput excluding crude oil terminals also posted strong growth during the quarter, increasing by 11.6 per cent year-on-year to 32.38 million metric tons from 29.02 million metric tons recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.

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‎The NPA attributed the growth to rising trade volumes, stronger import and export activities, improved port productivity, and sustained demand for port services.

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‎One of the strongest performances during the period came from outward cargo traffic, which surged by 23.7 per cent to 14.13 million metric tons, reflecting stronger export competitiveness and deeper integration into regional and global supply chains.

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‎Similarly, outward laden container traffic recorded exceptional growth of 67.6 per cent, rising from 61,332 TEUs in Q1 2025 to 102,803 TEUs in Q1 2026, a performance linked to improved export logistics and terminal efficiency.

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‎Vehicle traffic also emerged as a major growth area, with total vehicle units handled rising sharply by 67 per cent to 58,870 units during the quarter, compared to 35,262 units in the same period last year.

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‎The report further highlighted an 83.1 per cent increase in transshipment container activity, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing relevance within regional maritime trade and logistics networks.

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‎Industry analysts said the increase in transshipment activity is particularly significant because it suggests Nigeria is beginning to attract more regional cargo movement within West Africa, a critical objective as AfCFTA gradually dismantles trade barriers across the continent.

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‎The maritime reforms being pursued under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have centred on infrastructure upgrades, digitalisation and institutional restructuring aimed at transforming the country into a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa.

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‎A major component of the reforms is the ongoing rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port following the approval and signing of the MOU for $1 Billion overhaul of longstanding infrastructure deficiencies for improved port competitiveness.

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‎Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has also disclosed that procurement processes are underway for upgrades in Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar ports as part of efforts to ensure balanced port development nationwide.

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‎In addition to physical infrastructure upgrades, the government is pushing an aggressive digitalisation agenda through the deployment of the Port Community System and the National Single Window platform to streamline cargo clearance processes, reduce delays and improve transparency.

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‎Industry stakeholders believe these initiatives could significantly lower the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports while improving turnaround time and operational efficiency.

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‎The government has also expanded investments in rail integration, inland dry ports, barging operations and export corridors to improve cargo evacuation and reduce congestion around port corridors.

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‎Security improvements within Nigerian waters have further strengthened confidence in the sector.

Nigeria has now recorded over four years without piracy incidents, a development attributed to the Deep Blue Programme and enhanced maritime surveillance systems.

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‎According to the NPA, the Q1 performance demonstrates that the maritime sector is evolving into a more cargo-intensive and commercially dynamic ecosystem capable of supporting economic growth, trade facilitation and regional connectivity.

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‎Despite the progress, Dantsoho recently acknowledged that Nigeria still handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in West Africa despite accounting for more than 60 per cent of the region’s GDP, stressing that the country must sustain ongoing reforms to fully optimise its maritime potential.

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‎“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he assured.