The World Bank has listed Nigeria’s Tincan Island and Apapa Port Complexes among the Top 20 improved ports globally in its 2025 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), released in June 2026.
According to the CPPI report, the ranking reflects measurable improvements in port efficiency, particularly in vessel turnaround time and overall operational performance.
The Container Port Performance Index is a data-driven global benchmark that assesses port efficiency by measuring the time vessels spend in port. It allows for comparison across global terminals and tracks performance improvements over time.
The inclusion of Tincan Island and Apapa ports in the Top 20 improvement category signals notable progress in Nigeria’s maritime operations under ongoing reforms at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). 
The development comes amid continued efforts to modernize port infrastructure and streamline cargo handling processes at major Nigerian seaports, which serve as key gateways for international trade in West Africa.
The NPA management, led by its Chief Executive, has attributed the improvements to ongoing reforms focused on operational efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, and technology-driven port processes.
Authorities also linked the development to broader national trade performance, noting Nigeria’s reported trade surplus trends since 2024 and the ₦7.54 trillion trade surplus recorded in the first quarter of 2026, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Officials said improved port efficiency plays a critical role in facilitating import-export activities and strengthening Nigeria’s position in regional and global trade.
In response to the report, NPA leadership described the recognition as a validation of ongoing modernization efforts, citing government support and investment-driven reforms aimed at improving competitiveness across Nigerian ports.
The statement also referenced broader economic policies aimed at encouraging investment in port infrastructure and enhancing logistics efficiency to support national economic growth.
The CPPI ranking is widely regarded as one of the key global indicators for measuring port performance, particularly in emerging and developing economies where efficiency improvements have significant trade implications.
The recognition places Nigeria’s two busiest ports among globally improving terminals, highlighting progress in operational efficiency and ongoing maritime sector reforms.
