From the busy docks of Apapa to the vast waters of Lekki, Nigeria’s ports have a story to tell that goes beyond just cargo volumes and ship arrivals; they highlight who truly reaps the rewards in our global trade networks. In this insightful paper, Udenna Chukwulobe sheds light on why foreign companies continue to dominate high-value port services, even with strong local content laws in place. It explores how Nigeria can strike a balance between global maritime standards and meaningful participation from local players in areas like terminal operations, shipping, logistics, and technology transfer.

Combining sharp legal insights with practical knowledge of port governance, the paper identifies the gaps in enforcement, the loopholes in waivers, and the capacity challenges that hinder local businesses. It then offers a clear and actionable roadmap for transforming Nigerian ports into engines of industrial growth, job creation, and locally retained value, all without compromising on efficiency or compliance.

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