NPA Fully Committed, Driving 24Hr Port Service

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

For the umpteenth time, the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) says it remain committed to intensifying efforts to achieve the proposed 24hour port operations nationwide through ongoing innovations to modernize port operations.

Speaking at the 5th JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall Meeting held recently at the Rockview Hotel, GRA Apapa Lagos with the theme: Bridging the Gaps to Actualize 24 hours Port Operations, NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho disclosed that to expand the ongoing initiative, the authority is also advancing the implementation of a Port Community System (PCS).

Dantsoho said the combined efforts are aimed at aligning with international best practices and strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade. According to the NPA helmsman, key port services, including pilotage, marine operations, vessel traffic management, and exit gate access, are already operating around the clock at major hubs like the Lagos Ports Complex, Lekki Port and the Tin Can Island Port.

He explained that these continuous operations are supported by rotational shifts for pilots and marine crews, including an automated billing system built into the Eto-electronic call-up system; which streamlines truck scheduling and cargo movement.

He said the unified digital platform is designed to integrate all port stakeholders for seamless data exchange and real-time process visibility; and when fully deployed, is expected to further enhance the efficiency of 24-hour operations.

Dantsoho who was represented by Lawal Ibrahim, Port Manager of Lagos Ports Complex (LPC), noted that while significant progress has been made, a 24hour port operations is however primed against certain challenges, top of which is security concerns at night and the need for adequate lighting at key access points and operational areas.

“The NPA is collaborating closely with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the police to strengthen maritime security and ensure safe movement for port officials and truckers,” he said.