Lagos Ports (Apapa and Tin Can) Handle Over 80% of All Imports Coming Into Nigeria?

The Apapa and Tin Can Island ports are not just maritime hubs; they are the central nervous system of Nigeria's international trade. Strategically located in the heart of Lagos, these two ports collectively handle the lion's share of the nation's imports, accounting for over 80% of all goods entering the country. From essential raw materials for manufacturing to consumer electronics and petroleum products, the majority of what Nigerians consume passes through these gates. Their performance serves as a direct barometer for the health of the national economy.

While both ports are vital, they serve distinct but complementary roles. The Apapa Quay, established in 1913, remains the premier port of the nation, boasting extensive land area and deep-water berths capable of handling massive container vessels. Tin Can Island, commissioned in 1977 to ease the congestion at Apapa, has evolved into a highly productive hub for roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels, making it the primary entry point for vehicles and heavy machinery in West Africa. Together, they form a formidable maritime complex that anchors the Lagos economy.

​The sheer volume of traffic handled by these ports creates a unique set of logistical hurdles. Congestion on the access roads historically dubbed the "Apapa Gridlock" has been a persistent thorn in the side of businesses, leading to increased haulage costs and delays in cargo clearance. In recent years, reports have estimated that port-related delays cost the Nigerian economy billions of dollars annually. These challenges have highlighted the urgent need for a shift from a purely road-based evacuation system to more efficient rail and barge alternatives.

​Recognizing that the ports are operating at the limit of their designed capacity, the Federal Government and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) have embarked on a massive modernization drive. In late 2025, plans were solidified for a $1 billion investment aimed at digitizing port operations and rehabilitating crumbling quay walls. By introducing "Smart Port" technologies and the "National Single Window" project, the goal is to reduce vessel turnaround times by up to 65%, ensuring Lagos remains competitive against emerging regional rivals like Cotonou and Tema.

The future of Lagos maritime trade is diversifying with the rise of the Lekki Deep Sea Port. While Apapa and Tin Can Island remain the historical heavyweights, the new deep-sea facilities are designed to handle the world's largest container ships, which the older ports cannot accommodate. This creates a "hub and spoke" model for Lagos, where the older island ports focus on specialized cargo and regional trade, while the newer deep-sea ports handle the massive global transshipment volumes, solidifying Nigeria's position as the maritime leader of the continent.