The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has called on traders and investors to explore the newly simplified export processes and vast business opportunities available at the NPA.
Speaking at the ‘Special Day’ event of the Nigerian Ports Authority at the ongoing Kaduna International Trade Fair, Dantsoho assured stakeholders that the NPA remains open to partnerships beyond the trade fair.
“I warmly invite you to engage with our business development team at the NPA pavilion and visit our fully interactive, real-time website, www.nigerianports.gov.ng, to access our growth offerings,” he said.
As part of its efforts to strengthen the domestic economy and promote a favorable Balance of Trade, the NPA has established Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) to streamline the previously cumbersome process of exporting Nigerian goods.
“The EPTs serve as a one-stop-shop for cargo consolidation, stuffing, documentation, packaging, certification, and onward shipment through an electronic call-up system. This initiative eliminates bureaucratic bottlenecks that previously made Nigerian exports less competitive internationally,” Dantsoho explained.
To enhance port-hinterland connectivity and create pathways for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the export value chain, the EPTs will be linked with Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) in collaboration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and other relevant partners.
Dantsoho emphasized that the establishment of EPTs aligns with the Federal Government’s ease-of-doing-business agenda and complements the theme of this year’s Kaduna Trade Fair: “Promoting Efficiency in Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Trade through Digital Transformation.”
Furthermore, the NPA is aggressively pursuing the full automation of its processes through the Ports Community System (PCS), which serves as the foundation for implementing the National Single Window (NSW).
“The NSW is a globally recognized best practice for enhancing efficiency in trade by seamlessly connecting all stakeholders in the value chain at the push of a button,” he noted.
He commended the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (KADCCIMA) for its dedication to fostering business-friendly initiatives that continue to attract global participation in the Kaduna Trade Fair.
He highlighted Kaduna’s strategic position as a key trade hub and gateway to Nigeria’s northern hinterland, as well as landlocked neighboring countries. With its rich agro-allied potential, Kaduna presents significant opportunities for linking local producers in the non-oil sector with international demand clusters.
“As Nigeria’s leading trade facilitation platform, the Nigerian Ports Authority is proud to support this noble initiative. Trade remains one of the most effective tools for achieving our economic aspirations,” he concluded.
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