Nigeria’s Shipping Sector Sees 40–50% Growth in 2025, Ports Efficiency Remains Key

The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN) has reported a 40–50 per cent growth across the country’s shipping sector in 2025, attributing the rise to currency stability and broader economic improvements.

SAN Chairman, Boma Alabi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, disclosed this in Lagos while addressing maritime journalists, noting that the sector performed better in 2025 compared to 2024.

“We have seen growth across the entire shipping sector this year, both in imports and exports, largely due to currency stability and other positive economic factors. Observations suggest a 40 to 50 per cent increase, based on vessel traffic at our ports,” Alabi said.

She highlighted that port efficiency depends heavily on the effectiveness of the agencies operating within them. Efficient agency operations allow vessels to dock and leave promptly, reducing costs for importers, exporters, manufacturers, and consumers.

“Agency efficiency is critical. For example, if the Nigeria Customs Service is not operating optimally, it directly affects the speed of cargo clearance. While the government has introduced automated systems like B’Odogwu, some of these technologies are not functioning as intended,” she added.

Alabi urged government agencies to adopt a commercial perspective and properly test new technologies before implementation to avoid disruptions in port operations. She also called for greater investment in port infrastructure to enhance efficiency and attract investors.

Supporting the growth trend, Mr. Amuni Riwan, a leader of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, confirmed the increase in shipping trade this year.

SAN represents major shipping-line agents and maritime stakeholders operating in Nigeria.