N7m Clears Container In Cotonou, Same Cargo Costs N15m In Apapa — IMAN

The Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) has raised concerns over the rising cost of cargo clearance at Nigerian ports, revealing a significant price gap between Apapa Port in Lagos and neighbouring ports in West Africa.

According to the association, it costs between N7 million and N8 million to clear a 20-foot container in Cotonou, Benin Republic, while the same cargo attracts between N14 million and N15 million at Apapa Port in Nigeria.

The group described the disparity as a major factor encouraging importers to divert cargoes to neighbouring countries such as Benin Republic, Ghana and Togo, where port operations are considered cheaper and more efficient.

In an interview with Vanguard in Apapa, Lagos, IMAN South West Chairman, Joseph Ajoku, criticised recent tariff increases by shipping lines and terminal operators, warning that they could worsen inflation and further strain import-dependent businesses.

He said a 40-foot container that costs about N13 million to N14 million to clear in Benin Republic attracts between N19 million and N20 million in Nigeria.

“Our findings reveal that smaller West African countries such as Ghana, Togo, Benin Republic and Burkina Faso are recording significant improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery,” the association said.

“For instance, at Benin Republic ports, a 20-foot container can be cleared at approximately N7 million to N8 million, compared to N14 million to N15 million at Apapa Port, Nigeria.”

The association argued that Nigeria’s higher port costs are weakening its competitiveness in the West African sub-region and discouraging legitimate import trade through local ports.

IMAN National General Secretary, Aliyu Yar’adua, said importers remain vital to Nigeria’s economy, noting that the sector contributes significantly to government revenue after oil.

He called on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to halt further tariff increases and ensure broader stakeholder consultation before approving adjustments in port charges.

Yar’adua warned that many importers were already struggling under high foreign exchange rates, rising interest rates and multiple levies, leading some to abandon shipments altogether.

He added that further increases in port costs would worsen inflation and push more trade activity to neighbouring countries, undermining Nigeria’s revenue base and economic stability.