Cargo traffic surges as Kaduna Dry Port hits 800-container monthly throughput

Cargo operations at the Kaduna Inland Dry Port (KIDP) have recorded significant improvement, with monthly container throughput increasing from 200 to 800 units, according to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).

Danjuma Buba, Deputy Director at the NSC Kaduna Port Office, disclosed this in an interview on Monday in Kaduna.

He said the surge in activity followed stronger coordination with the Kaduna State Government and the removal of key operational bottlenecks.

Buba identified delays and frequent interceptions of trucks on transit as major challenges previously affecting the port’s performance.

However, he noted that timely interventions had ensured smoother truck movement, enabling quicker delivery and evacuation of containers.

He added that the improved access has encouraged more businesses and residents to use the facility, pushing throughput beyond 800 containers as of November and stimulating trade and industrial activities across Kaduna and neighbouring communities.

According to him, the state government’s investment in constructing an access road reflects its commitment to sustaining and expanding the port’s operations.

Buba said the rise in cargo movement has boosted revenue generation for both state and federal governments through customs duties and other port charges, while stimulating business opportunities and increasing purchasing power in the host community.

He urged businesses in Kaduna to maximize the port’s services for both import and export activities, stressing that the KIDP was established to serve their needs.

He noted that Kaduna has abundant exportable commodities—such as ginger, sesame seeds and beans—and called on exporters to take advantage of competitive tariffs and available incentives.

He also appealed to the state government to complete the second lane of the access road to further ease movement and sustain the port’s growth.

Similarly, Razak Salami, KIDP Port Manager, said the facility has witnessed remarkable progress in cargo throughput, attributing the development to consistent support from the NSC and effective collaboration with agencies including the Nigeria Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), NAFDAC and others.