Container volume through Nigerian ports up 9.4pc in May to 83,044 TEU

CONTAINER traffic through the Nigerian ports in May increased 9.4 per cent year on year to 83,044 TEU, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), reports Nigeria's PM News.

Empties totalled 56,923 TEU, up 13.5 per cent year on year, said the report. Vehicular traffic during the month 23,445 units increased 0.6 per cent.

NPA managing director Omar Suleiman said infrastructure development resulted in the increase. "The effort will be intensified as we vigorously pursue our vision to make Nigerian ports the hub of the West and Central African region," Mr Suleiman said.

Transport Minister Idris Umar said overall cargo volume through Nigerian ports increased 90 per cent between 2006 and 2011.

Mr Umar also said the port reform which culminated in concession of port terminals has transformed the country's maritime sector has a hub of port destination for west and central African countries.