FG Directs NPA to Oversee Inland Dry Port Functions

The Federal Government of Nigeria has instructed the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to take over the functions of the Inland Dry Port (IDP) from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC). This announcement was made by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, via a statement on his X page on Thursday.

The directive is part of a broader restructuring initiative within the port sector, following the enactment of the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Act, 2026. This act will facilitate the transition of the NSC into NPERA, which will serve as the country's primary port economic regulator.

Oyetola stated that this transfer aims to create a clearer distinction between port economic regulation, development, and operations. The NPA is expected to better integrate inland dry ports into the national port infrastructure.

Additionally, Oyetola announced the formation of a Ministerial Committee to oversee the transition to NPERA, which will be responsible for tariffs, competition, licensing, service standards, and dispute resolution.