Polish companies are taking part in the modernisation of the principal ports in western Lagos, facilities that handle roughly 90% of Nigeria’s trade, making the project highly significant for the national economy. According to the Ministry of Development and Technology, it also represents a major opportunity for the growth of numerous Polish enterprises.

The initiative is made possible through close international cooperation, including with UK Export Finance. In response to inquiries, the Ministry confirmed that UK Export Finance acts as the agency securing investment funding of approximately USD 1 billion, while the Polish Export Credit Insurance Corporation (KUKE) serves as a reinsurer, covering nearly half of the transaction’s value.

“Polish firms leveraging KUKE-supported financing instruments strengthen their position as suppliers and contractors in major infrastructure projects. Their involvement in the Lagos port modernisation, critical to Nigeria’s trade, underscores this trend. It is also an excellent example of successful collaboration with British institutions in emerging markets, demonstrating that we are a highly competent business partner,” stated Andrzej Domański, Minister of Finance and Economy.

The project engages a dozen or more companies specialising in the supply of steel, cabling, and construction components used in port structures and infrastructure, encompassing both large enterprises and SMEs.

Polish participation is the result of several years of work by KUKE staff, the Polish Investment and Trade Agency, and representatives of Poland’s diplomatic corps. Key activities have included attending conferences on trade and investment financing in Africa, organising Polish-led business conferences, meeting government representatives, and maintaining strong relationships with foreign financial institutions and banks.

The Ministry of Development and Technology estimates that the value of Polish exports within the framework of this project will reach approximately USD 150 million in the coming years.