FG Transfers Inland Dry Port Functions to NPA

On September 3, 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria initiated a significant restructuring of the nation's port administration by directing the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to assume the functions of the Inland Dry Port (IDP) that were previously managed by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC). This directive was announced by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, as part of efforts to implement a new regulatory framework for the maritime sector.

The decision aligns with the enactment of the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Act, 2026, which transforms the Nigerian Shippers’ Council into the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulatory Agency, the primary economic regulator for Nigeria's port industry. Oyetola emphasized that these changes aim to create a clearer distinction between economic regulation, port development, and operations.