UN/LOCODE NG LOS: Port of Lagos (Apapa/Tincan), Nigeria — Seaport
Location
| Coordinates | 6.45, 3.38 |
|---|---|
| Country | Nigeria |
| Function | West Africa's Largest Port, Nigeria Gateway |
| Authority | Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) |
Physical Specifications
| Max Draft | 11.5m |
|---|---|
| Channel Depth | 12.0m |
| Tide Range | 1.0m |
| Berth Length | 1,200m (total container) |
| Anchorage Depth | 15m |
Administrative
| Customs Code | NG LOS |
|---|---|
| IMO Facility No. | NGLOS-0001 |
| Working Hours | 24/7 (congestion common) |
| ISPS Compliance | Yes (Level 1) |
| VHF Channel | 16 (Call) |
| Port Website | www.nigerianports.gov.ng |
Commercial & Logistics
| Annual Volume | 1.8 million TEU (2025) |
|---|---|
| Primary Cargo Types | Container (Consumer Goods, Electronics), Petroleum Products, Cement |
| Vessel Types | Container, General Cargo, Tanker |
| Free Trade Zone | Yes (Lagos Free Zone) |
| Bunker Fuel | IFO 380, VLSFO (limited) |
| Nearest Airport | LOS (20km) |
| Rail Connection | Nigerian Railway (limited service) |
| Highway Access | Lagos-Apapa Expressway (chronic congestion) |
| Inland Depots | CFS in Lagos Industrial Area |
Trade Intelligence: Lagos (Apapa/Tincan)
Lagos (Apapa/Tincan) is classified as a Seaport with annual throughput of 1.8 million TEU (2025). The port handles Container (Consumer Goods, Electronics), Petroleum Products, Cement. As West Africa's Largest Port, Nigeria Gateway, Lagos (Apapa/Tincan) plays a critical role in Nigeria's trade infrastructure. Shippers should confirm berth availability, draft restrictions, and ISPS security levels directly with Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) before scheduling vessel calls.
Port History
Apapa Port opened 1913 under British colonial rule. Tincan Island added 1977 for container handling. Together handle ~70% of Nigeria's imports. Severe congestion in 2020-2022 led to government intervention.
Authority: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LOCODE for Lagos (Apapa/Tincan)?
The UN/LOCODE is NG LOS. Use in bills of lading and customs declarations.
What trade routes connect to Lagos (Apapa/Tincan)?
Lagos (Apapa/Tincan) serves as West Africa's Largest Port, Nigeria Gateway. GH TEM, CI ABJ, SN DKR, SG SIN, AE DXB, US NYC
How do I find shipping schedules?
Contact Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) or query carriers (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM) using LOCODE NG LOS.
Data Sources & Provenance
Port specifications compiled from:
- UNECE UN/LOCODE Directory — United Nations official location codes
- Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) — official port authority
- IMO GISIS — maritime facility database
Updated: June 2026. For reference only. Not for navigation.