The Nigerian Ports Authority has stated that the total number of vehicles handled in Nigeria during the first quarter of 2026 rose to 58,870 units from 35,262 units recorded in the corresponding period of 2025, representing a 67 per cent increase.
The NPA disclosed this in its Q1 2026 Operational Performance Review obtained on Sunday.
The authority explained that Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded strong operational growth in the first quarter of 2026, with Gross Registered Tonnage for ocean going vessels rising by 19.5 per cent to 46.75 million, highlighting the increasing dominance of larger-capacity ships across the nation’s ports amid ongoing reforms aimed at positioning Nigeria as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
It added that the increase in vessel tonnage reflects improved cargo-carrying efficiency and growing confidence among international shipping lines in Nigerian ports. “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,” the NPA said.