BUA backs NPA reforms, invests $65m in port modernisation

BUA Group has reaffirmed its confidence in Nigeria’s port reform programme with a $65 million investment in the modernisation of Terminal B at the Rivers Port Complex, Port Harcourt, as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) intensifies efforts to improve operational efficiency and attract private sector investment.

Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, commended the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, and his management team for their commitment to strengthening stakeholder engagement, improving port operations and advancing the modernisation of Nigeria’s seaports.

Rabiu made the remarks during a meeting with the NPA leadership, where both parties reviewed ongoing reforms, infrastructure renewal initiatives and opportunities to deepen collaboration between the Authority and private sector operators.

As one of Nigeria’s largest industrial conglomerates, BUA is a major investor in the maritime sector through BUA Ports and Terminals Nigeria Limited, the concessionaire of Terminal B at the Rivers Port Complex.

The company is investing more than $65 million to reconstruct and modernise the terminal, a project aimed at expanding cargo handling capacity, improving operational efficiency and enhancing service delivery.

Rabiu said the NPA’s commitment to creating a more efficient operating environment and maintaining constructive engagement with stakeholders was strengthening investor confidence and encouraging long-term investments in critical port infrastructure.

Responding, Dantsoho thanked the BUA chairman for the commendation and reaffirmed the Authority’s resolve to build a modern, efficient and globally competitive port system through sustained collaboration with terminal operators and other private sector partners.

He said the NPA would continue to implement reforms designed to reduce vessel turnaround time, strengthen cargo evacuation, improve operational efficiency and attract greater investment into Nigeria’s maritime industry.

According to him, private sector investments such as BUA’s ongoing reconstruction of Terminal B represent a strong vote of confidence in the Federal Government’s port reform agenda.

Dantsoho added that the Authority would continue to provide an enabling environment for investments that facilitate trade, support industrialisation and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.

He noted that the collaboration aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises public-private partnerships to modernise critical infrastructure, improve trade facilitation and accelerate economic growth.