U.S., Russia bypass Nigerian ports, pivot to Togo’s Lomé hub

Despite Nigeria’s ongoing port reforms and expansion projects, global powers like the United States and Russia are turning their focus to the Port of Lomé in Togo, which has rapidly evolved into a key maritime gateway in West Africa.

A surge in trade volumes between Asia and West Africa has transformed Lomé into a major container port in the region. Leading ocean carriers, notably Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), have responded by deploying ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) on West African routes, boosting the port’s liner connectivity.

U.S. deepens engagement with Lomé

Seeking to strengthen its commercial footprint, the United States has pledged to expand its African trade access through Lomé’s modern facilities. Last week, the U.S. Embassy in Lomé, led by Chargé d’Affaires Richard C. Michaels, toured the Lomé Container Terminal (LCT) and met with its management to explore trade opportunities for American businesses.

“With advanced deep-water capacity, state-of-the-art equipment, and an annual throughput exceeding 30 million tons, Lomé offers unmatched access to African markets,” the U.S. Embassy said in a statement. “Ongoing infrastructure projects, including a dry port and industrial zone, further reinforce its status as a regional gateway.”

The visit followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s meeting in Washington with five West African leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal. The discussions focused on enhancing trade partnerships at a time when the U.S. is scaling back aid to Africa.

Russia cements military ties

Russia is also consolidating its strategic presence in Togo, according to Vanguard report. The Kremlin recently ratified a military cooperation agreement with Lomé, originally signed earlier this year. The deal includes joint military exercises, training programmes, and the supply of weapons and military equipment. It also covers navigation, hydrography, and anti-piracy initiatives.

Analysts suggest that the agreement will grant Russia increased access to Lomé’s strategic seaport, including regular visits by Russian naval vessels.

“Togo is regarded as one of the most organised and well-equipped maritime hubs in tropical Africa,” said Vladimir Gruzdev, a member of the Russian Government Commission on Legislative Activity. “Its seaport is among the busiest in West Africa.”

Nigeria loses out

The growing prominence of Lomé underscores challenges facing Nigerian ports. The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN), representing foreign shipping lines, has warned that high operational costs are driving cargo traffic to neighbouring countries.

SAN chairperson Boma Alabi noted that much of the cargo shipped through ports like Lomé ultimately ends up in Nigerian markets, depriving the country of revenue, jobs, and other economic benefits.

She also criticised plans to introduce four additional Free On Board (FOB) charges for cargo clearance in Nigeria, warning that such measures would worsen the country’s competitive disadvantage and stifle trade growth.