The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has called on Nigerian traders, exporters, and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the newly simplified export processes put in place by the agency.
Dantsoho made the call while speaking at the 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, which had the theme “Developing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector/SMEs for Economic Advancement and Global Recognition.”
In his address, Dantsoho said the NPA had introduced the Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) to remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks that had previously made it difficult for Nigerian goods to compete globally.
“The NPA has now created a platform that simplifies the entire export process. From cargo consolidation to certification, everything has been made easier,” Dantsoho said. “We want value creators even from the most remote parts of Nigeria to connect with global demand smoothly.”
The NPA boss explained that the EPTs are designed to act as one-stop hubs for exporters—handling packaging, documentation, stuffing, certification, and shipment, all in one place. He said this reduces delays and eliminates overlaps that previously frustrated exporters.
“With faster processing and less human interference, our new system reduces corruption and increases efficiency,” he said. “We are also working to automate all our services using the Ports Community System, which will eventually lead to a full rollout of the National Single Window (NSW) system.”
According to Dantsoho, the NSW is the gold standard globally for trade facilitation. It digitally connects all trade stakeholders—customs, exporters, shippers, and regulators—on one platform.
“It’s a game changer,” he said. “At the push of a button, exporters can complete procedures that used to take days or weeks.”
To support this initiative, Dantsoho also mentioned that the EPTs would be connected to Domestic Export Warehouses in partnership with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and other relevant bodies. This link will further help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) participate in exports without stress.
He also praised the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (ECCIMA) for sustaining the tradition of the trade fair, saying the fair remains a vital tool for promoting trade, investments, and economic development.
“The NPA is proud to associate with this noble platform. Trade remains one of the strongest tools to drive economic growth,” he added.
Dantsoho noted that Enugu, as the gateway to the South-Eastern hinterland, holds massive potential for export expansion. He said the NPA is ready to partner with businesses and state governments in the region to unlock these opportunities.
“We are open for partnerships that will drive growth beyond this trade fair,” he assured.
The NPA boss urged traders, exporters, and SMEs to explore the new export pathways, especially those looking to expand their reach beyond Nigeria.
