Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that work will soon begin on the second phase of the Lekki Deep Sea Port project, as the facility approaches the limits of its current operational capacity.
The governor disclosed this during the Invest Lagos Summit 3.0 on Tuesday, where he outlined ongoing infrastructure projects designed to strengthen Lagos’ position as a major commercial, logistics and maritime hub in Africa.
Sanwo-Olu said the rapid growth recorded by the port since its commencement of operations has necessitated plans for expansion within a relatively short period.
According to him, the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents significant opportunities for Lagos, given its strategic location and role in regional trade.
“With the African Continental Free Trade Area creating a market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion, Lagos occupies a uniquely strategic position.
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,” the governor said.
He explained that the port expansion is part of a broader infrastructure development strategy being pursued by the state government to support economic growth and attract investment.
“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,” Sanwo-Olu added.
The governor noted that the second phase of development will increase cargo-handling capacity, improve maritime operations and reinforce Lagos’ status as a key gateway for trade under the AfCFTA framework.
Also speaking at the summit, Managing Director of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang, praised the Lagos State Government for creating an environment that supports long-term investment and infrastructure development.
He said government policies and infrastructure initiatives have helped sustain investor confidence and encouraged continued private-sector participation in 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 stated.
Describing the next stage of the project as a major step in the port’s growth trajectory, he said the expansion would boost efficiency and strengthen the facility’s competitiveness in regional trade.
“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 said.
Qiang further explained that the expansion would improve logistics operations along the Lekki corridor, increase the port’s handling capacity and attract additional investments from international shipping and logistics companies.
The planned Phase 2 development is expected to support Nigeria’s trade facilitation objectives, meet growing shipping demands and further establish Lagos as one of Africa’s leading maritime and commercial gateways.
