Nigeria Must Embrace Smart Port Technology to Remain Competitive — Maritime Leaders.
Nigeria Must Embrace Smart Port Technology to Remain Competitive‐ Maritime Leaders.
Lucky Akra
Nigeria’s maritime industry stakeholders on Thursday,30th of April,2026 called for urgent and comprehensive technological reforms in port operations as the 2026 Annual Conference of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) opened in Apapa, Lagos.
The conference, themed “Attaining Port Efficiency in the Face of Emerging Technology,” brought together policymakers, regulators, maritime operators, and industry experts to examine the future of Nigeria’s ports amid growing global digital transformation.
Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, warned that Nigeria risks losing its competitive edge in West Africa if its ports continue to operate with outdated systems.
Represented by maritime lawyer Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), Sunmola described the conference as a strategic platform for shaping policies capable of driving reforms across the maritime sector.
He highlighted persistent operational challenges at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, including prolonged cargo dwell time, lack of transparency in port charges, and inadequate infrastructure.
According to him, these inefficiencies have continued to push cargo traffic to neighbouring countries, undermining Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading maritime hub in the region.
“Countries and ports that embrace technology will lead; those that resist will be left behind and their cargo will follow,” Sunmola said.
He acknowledged recent reforms such as the Electronic Call-Up System and the National Single Window project but stressed that broader and deeper technological integration remains necessary.
Sunmola identified artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and automated port equipment as critical tools for achieving modern and efficient port management.
He further noted that technological advancement must be supported by strong institutions and effective regulation. He urged government agencies to intensify digitalisation efforts, ensure compliance with reforms, and create incentives for private sector investment in smart port infrastructure.
The NPCC chairman also charged the media to sustain public engagement and accountability in the ongoing push for maritime sector reforms.
The event featured keynote presentations by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Mufutau Egberongbe, alongside discussions on strategies to improve port efficiency and position Nigeria for greater competitiveness in global maritime trade.
