Importers Shun Lagos Ports, Opt for Togo and Ghana Amid Soaring Fees

A growing number of importers are bypassing Lagos ports for Togo, Ghana and Benin as escalating charges at Nigerian ports disrupt their operations.

According to people familiar with the situation, cargo clearance fees jumped because of multiple tariffs imposed on imported goods by government agencies, terminal operators and shipping companies.

In less than a month, clearance costs have surged by nearly 100% despite the economic situation in Nigeria and weak consumer spending.

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) recently raised port dues and tariffs from 7% to 15%, effectively doubling charges.

Although the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) paused a proposed 4% levy on free-on-board (FOB) values, terminal operators and shipping firms still increased their fees by 20% to 45%.

While the cost of clearing a 40-foot container has skyrocketed from N18 million to N26 million since late January 2025 and the clearing of a 20-foot container nearly doubled to N20 million.

Despite having all required certifications, importers face lengthy delays and mounting demurrage fees, which now stand at N68,500 per day for a 40-foot container and N48,000 for a 20-foot container.

Jonathan Nicol, former president of the Shippers Association of Lagos (SAL), stated: “We need the government to reduce the cost of doing business. Shippers already struggle with levies from shipping companies, terminal operators, and clearing agents. If additional costs are imposed, the situation will worsen.”

Meanwhile, neighboring ports in Ghana, Togo and Benin are benefiting from Nigeria’s challenges, capturing cargoes destined for the country.

The Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed that Nigeria now handles less than two million TEUs annually despite being the destination for 70% of West African-bound cargo.

Funmilayo Uche, a key player in the maritime sector, criticized the rising charges: “They say they need funds for infrastructure, but where are the improvements? Even simple processes like obtaining loading papers are chaotic.”

As port charges escalate without service improvements, analysts warn that Nigeria’s ports risk losing their competitive edge, driving more importers to West African neighbors and deepening the country’s economic challenges.