China has pledged technical support to Nigeria for the modernisation and automation of its seaports. The commitment was made by China’s Vice Minister of Transport, Li Yang, during a meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in London.

China, which operates 52 fully automated ports globally, will assist Nigeria in implementing smart-port technologies, including cargo-handling automation, electronic customs processes, digital gate systems, and maritime communications tools. Training and capacity-building programmes for Nigerian youths are also planned.

The initiative targets major ports like Lagos’ Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce delays, and promote transparency. A bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to formalise cooperation in port digitalisation, maritime safety, shipbuilding, inland waterways, and environmental protection.

This partnership marks a key step in Nigeria’s drive to modernise its maritime sector and strengthen its position in global trade. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.