The Lagos State Government has announced that Lekki Port Expansion will soon enter its second phase, as authorities move to increase cargo-handling capacity and strengthen the state’s position as a leading maritime and logistics hub in West Africa. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed the development during the Invest Lagos Summit 3.0 held in Lagos earlier this week.
The Lekki Deep Sea Port is one of Nigeria’s major infrastructure projects designed to improve maritime trade, enhance logistics operations, and support economic growth. Since commencing operations, the port has become a strategic asset within Lagos State’s broader investment and transportation framework.
According to the governor, the decision to commence the next phase reflects the growing utilisation of the facility and increasing demand for port services within Nigeria and the wider region. The development also aligns with opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to deepen trade among African countries.
Speaking at the summit, Sanwo-Olu said the port was approaching the limits of its current installed capacity, making expansion necessary to accommodate future growth.
“With AfCFTA creating a market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion, Lagos occupies a uniquely strategic position,” the governor said. He noted that the Lekki Port Expansion demonstrates how infrastructure investments are reshaping the state’s economic landscape.
“The Lekki Deep Sea Port, within five years, is moving to phase two because it is almost reaching the full potential of its installed capacity. And just within five years, it is moving to phase two,” he stated.
“These are not just aspirations but projects that have been implemented and are under implementation. They have been funded, progressing, and transforming the investment landscape of our State.” The governor explained that the additional phase would significantly improve cargo throughput, support maritime trade activities, and strengthen Lagos’ role as a gateway to regional and international markets.
Managing Director of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang, welcomed the planned expansion and commended the Lagos State Government for maintaining an investment-friendly environment. According to him, the Lekki Port Expansion will increase operational efficiency and attract additional global investments into the maritime sector.
“We are deeply encouraged by the continued support of the Lagos State Government, whose infrastructure-led policies have created a stable and forward-looking environment for long-term maritime investment,” Qiang said. He added that the next stage of development would improve logistics operations along the Lekki corridor while enhancing the port’s capacity to serve regional trade demands.
“The commencement of the next phase of development represents a significant milestone in our journey to expand capacity, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen Lekki Port’s position as a premier gateway for West African trade under the AfCFTA framework,” he stated.
The planned port expansion is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and improve the country’s competitiveness within regional trade networks. Increased capacity could support import and export activities, reduce logistics bottlenecks, and attract further investment into related sectors. The project also aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to leverage AfCFTA opportunities and position Lagos as a strategic commercial gateway for African trade.
With preparations underway for Phase 2, the Lekki Port Expansion marks another milestone in Lagos State’s infrastructure development agenda. Government officials and industry stakeholders say the project will play a significant role in enhancing maritime operations, facilitating trade, and supporting long-term economic growth across the region.
