Nigerian ports cost double Cotonou's for cargo clearance, importers say

The Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) has voiced strong criticism regarding the escalating costs associated with clearing cargo at Nigerian ports. The association highlighted a stark disparity in expenses, revealing that clearing a standard 20-foot container in Cotonou, Benin Republic, costs between N7 million and N8 million.

In contrast, the same container incurs significantly higher charges at Nigeria's Apapa port, with costs ranging from N14 million to N15 million. This substantial difference raises concerns about the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Nigerian port operations for international trade.

IMAN emphasized the critical role importers play in the nation's economy, noting that they are the second-largest source of government revenue, surpassed only by the oil sector. The association's concerns underscore the need for reforms to streamline port processes and reduce the financial burden on businesses involved in import and export activities.