Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), emphasized that Abuja’s central location and its rich agro-allied resources are crucial for reinforcing the NPA’s commitment to aiding the federal government in expanding non-oil revenue. This is achieved by linking local producers within the non-oil value chain to targeted international markets for their products.
He highlighted that Abuja’s geographical positioning is vital to the NPA’s renewed focus on trade facilitation, particularly regarding port-hinterland connectivity. This centrality enhances the ability to leverage the unique advantages of various regions across the country, thereby supporting growth in both the volume and value of Nigeria’s exports.
Speaking at the Abuja International Trade Fair, Dantsoho expressed pride in the NPA’s association with the event, which he views as a significant platform for promoting trade—a key driver of Nigeria’s economic ambitions.
During the “NPA Special Day,” he encouraged the trading and investment community to take advantage of the streamlined export processes and the numerous opportunities available through the Nigerian Ports Authority.
He stated, “In our efforts to enhance the domestic economy by promoting a balanced trade, we established the Export Process Terminals (EPTs) to simplify the previously cumbersome export procedures for Nigerian goods.”
Dr. Dantsoho explained that the EPTs are designed as comprehensive service centers for cargo consolidation, documentation, packaging, certification, and efficient shipment through electronic call-up to the ports. This approach significantly reduces redundancies and bureaucratic hurdles that have historically made Nigerian exports less competitive in the global market.
To further improve port-hinterland connectivity and empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within the export value chain, the EPTs have been strategically aligned to work in conjunction with Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs), the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council (NEPC), and Inland Dry Ports.
