US, Russia Snub Nigerian Ports Turn to Togo for Trade Access

Despite Nigeria’s ongoing port reforms, both the United States and Russia are shifting their focus to Togo’s Port of Lomé, now emerging as West Africa’s major maritime gateway.

Lomé has become a hub for container trade between Asia and West Africa, attracting global shipping giants like MSC, which has begun deploying ultra-large vessels to the route. The port’s growing importance is reshaping trade patterns across the region.

Last week, US Chargé d’Affaires Richard Michaels led a delegation from the US Embassy in Togo on a tour of Lomé Container Terminal. They met with terminal managers to explore commercial opportunities for American businesses. The Embassy highlighted Lomé’s deep-water capabilities, cutting-edge equipment, and annual cargo throughput of over 30 million tons as key advantages.

“Infrastructure like a new dry port and industrial zone make Lomé an unmatched gateway to African markets,” the Embassy said in a statement.

The US interest comes shortly after President Donald Trump met with five West African leaders in Washington to discuss trade amid a broader shift in American foreign aid strategy.

Meanwhile, Russia is deepening ties with Togo through a military cooperation deal ratified this month. The agreement includes joint drills, weapons support, and access for Russian naval ships to the Port of Lomé. It also covers navigation, hydrography, and anti-piracy efforts.

Vladimir Gruzdev, a Russian official involved in drafting the law, described Togo as the most organised seaport in tropical Africa, saying, “The busiest seaport in West Africa is on its territory.”

This growing interest in Togo comes as Nigeria struggles to retain cargo traffic. The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN) warned that foreign cargo is increasingly routed through neighboring countries due to high operating costs at Nigerian ports.

SAN chairperson Boma Alabi said many of these shipments end up in Nigerian markets anyway, resulting in lost revenue, jobs, and missed opportunities for local businesses.

She also cautioned against the proposed addition of four new Free On Board (FOB) charges, warning that such policies could further stifle trade through Nigerian ports.