The Assistant Director of the National Port Process Manual (NPPM), Abubakar Muhammad, has expressed dismay over the insufficient logistics support and funding that are impeding the progress of the Port Standing Task Team (PSTT) in their efforts to streamline operations and decongest the ports.
Muhammad noted that the PSTT, comprising representatives from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and Department of State Services (DSS), was established to enhance efficiency at the nation’s ports.
He highlighted successful operations in Lagos and Port Harcourt, targeting vessel infractions and joint cargo examinations as well as initiatives like “Operation Free the Port Corridors,” which have dismantled over 15 illegal checkpoints, easing congestion between Apapa Port, Ijora, and Tin Can Port and improving cargo movement.
Despite these achievements, Muhammad identified several challenges hindering further progress, including the lack of operational vehicles, automation tools for remote monitoring, funding for personnel allowances, and the acquisition of towing trucks.
He emphasised that automation could significantly enhance PSTT’s monitoring capabilities by enabling remote operations.
Muhammad further stressed the importance of adequate funding to cover personnel allowances and training, underscoring the critical role of a well-trained workforce in maintaining high productivity standards.
“We urgently require our towing trucks to enhance operational efficiency and reduce reliance on external providers. The NSC seeks financial support to address these challenges and sustain the gains made thus far. We appeal for funding to ensure the success of these pivotal projects,” Muhammad urged.
The Director of the Consumers Affairs Department at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Carjetan Agu, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the council’s proactive approach to tackling issues related to trade facilitation and port congestion.
Agu referenced a study sponsored by the NSC on congestion at Lagos ports and corridors, revealing that Apapa Port, originally designed for a maximum of 2,500 trucks daily, now contends with an influx of 5,000 to 7,500 trucks daily.
Agu emphasised that approximately 5,000 trucks hover around the Apapa ring without legitimate business, attributing this congestion partly to indiscriminate parking by truck drivers canvassing for business along port roads.
Based on the study’s findings, Agu stated that the NSC advocated for the establishment of holding bays and the implementation of a traffic management system under the NPA’s administration.
Agu said additionally, the council initiated Domestic Export Warehouses in collaboration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) to consolidate cargoes outside port terminals, thereby reducing congestion within.He further highlighted the role of Border Information Centers, established with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in facilitating cross-border trade by collecting import and export data.
“Shippers and cargo owners with less than container load can take their cargoes to domestic export warehouses for consolidation, eliminating the need to transport them directly to the port. This consolidation process reduces port activities, particularly at terminals,” Agu explained.
He also mentioned ongoing efforts with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to establish bonded terminals for faster cargo clearance outside main seaports, aimed at reducing port dwell times.
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