Crude oil dominates Lagos ports as imports hit 2.39 million tonnes in August

Crude oil dominated cargo traffic through Lagos ports in August, with reported imports reaching 2,392,454 metric tonnes during the month.

The figures show that crude oil remained the leading commodity handled through the city’s major ports during the period.

According to available figures, vessels delivered 1,867,712 metric tonnes of crude oil to the Lekki Deep Sea Port in the first week of August.

Another 524,742 metric tonnes was scheduled for discharge at the Apapa Quays before the end of the month.

Together, the figures put reported crude oil volumes at more than 2.39 million tonnes.

The figures also highlight the continued importance of Lagos ports to Nigeria’s import and maritime trade activities.

Meanwhile, bulk wheat ranked second among the commodities recorded during the period.

Wheat imports totalled 321,849 metric tonnes, significantly below the volume recorded for crude oil.

Of the wheat total, 176,243 metric tonnes arrived during the first week of August.

A further 145,606 metric tonnes was expected to arrive later in the month.

The gap between the two commodities was substantial. Crude oil imports were more than seven times the reported volume of bulk wheat.

However, the figures also show that food commodities continue to account for a significant share of cargo passing through Lagos ports.

The latest data comes as Nigeria continues to rely heavily on maritime transport for the movement of major commodities.

The Lekki Deep Sea Port and Apapa Quays therefore remain important gateways for goods entering the country. The figures underline the dominant position of crude oil in the reported August cargo data, while also showing the significant role of wheat in Nigeria’s import trade.