World Bank Ranking Validates Tinubu’s Port Reforms – Group

The recent global ranking that placed Nigeria’s Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports among the world’s most improved maritime gateways has been described as a strong validation of the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) said the recognition reflects growing efficiency in Nigeria’s port system and confirms that ongoing reforms in trade facilitation and infrastructure modernisation are beginning to deliver tangible results.

The group’s position was contained in a statement signed by its Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, and Secretary, Segun Ogedengbe, in which it said the development marks a turning point for Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness.

According to TMV, the ranking is based on the World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), which evaluates global ports using data-driven indicators such as vessel turnaround time, operational efficiency, and service delivery.

The CPPI 2025 report, released in June 2026, showed notable improvements in Nigeria’s key ports, particularly the Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port, both of which were listed among the top 20 ports in the Port Improvement category.

“The recognition which was contained in the CPPI report for 2025 and released in June 2026 shows the progress made by the Nigerian Ports Authority in the areas of port efficiency, vessel turnaround time and overall operational performance,” the statement said.

TMV noted that the ranking reflects sustained efforts to modernise port infrastructure, streamline cargo handling processes, and improve overall operational standards within the maritime sector.

The group specifically commended the role of the Nigerian Ports Authority, noting that its reform initiatives have contributed significantly to improving efficiency at the Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port, two of the country’s busiest trade gateways.

It added that the improvements are already yielding broader economic benefits, including enhanced ease of doing business, increased trade flows, and stronger investor confidence in Nigeria’s logistics and maritime environment.

“These improvements in the Nigerian ports infrastructure have led to the country recording a trade surplus in the last three years, as well as enabling ease of doing business in the country,” TMV stated.

The group further argued that the reforms have positioned Nigeria as a more competitive player in regional and global trade, particularly within West and Central Africa, where efficient port operations remain critical to economic integration.

It maintained that the improved ranking of Nigeria’s ports will strengthen their role as major trade gateways and deepen the country’s participation in international commerce.

TMV expressed optimism that continued implementation of the Tinubu administration’s economic and port reforms would further enhance operational efficiency and sustain Nigeria’s upward trajectory in global maritime indices.

The group urged stakeholders in the maritime sector to continue supporting ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the country’s ports for long-term competitiveness and economic growth.