Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark £746 million ports infrastructure agreement to upgrade the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos, marking a major step toward enhancing trade efficiency and bilateral economic cooperation. The deal was finalised during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the UK, the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to deepening economic ties.
The agreement, backed by UK Export Finance and coordinated by Citibank London, will support large-scale refurbishment of port infrastructure, improve logistics efficiency, and create thousands of jobs across both countries. At least £236 million in contracts will benefit British firms, including a major steel supply deal with British Steel.
Officials say the project aligns with Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and its drive to modernise critical infrastructure. Enhanced port capacity, digitalisation, and reduced cargo delays are expected to boost competitiveness, increase government revenues, and strengthen long-term trade relations between both nations.
