NPA Intensifies Use Of Rail, Road, Water To Manage Export Surge

• Nigerian Ports Authority diversifies transportation methods to manage increasing export flow through Apapa terminal
• Export of agricultural and solid minerals surged by 33 percent in 2023 compared to 2022 figures

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is diversifying transportation methods, utilizing Rail, Road, and Inland Waterways to manage the increasing export flow to Apapa terminal.

Over the past three years, the export of agricultural and solid minerals has steadily risen, with a notable 33 percent increase in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Contrary to certain reports alleging trapped containers at the Lagos Port Complex, investigations reveal no such issue. Instead, there has been a significant upsurge in export volume through the seaport over the past two years.

To streamline export processes, NPA established designated Export Processing Terminals (EPT) some years ago. These terminals serve as a one-stop shop for export cargo and house officials from various government agencies to ensure compliance with export and import guidelines.

Mohammed Bello-Koko, the Managing Director of NPA, has debunked claims of trapped containers, asserting that the reports are misleading. He emphasized the absence of trapped export containers in the ports and highlighted the surge in export volume over the past two years.

Sarah Ballah, representing Bello-Koko, attributed the surge in exports to various factors, including the intensified use of multi-modalism. NPA encourages the movement of export cargo by rail, road, and inland water at the Apapa terminal.

The Authority established export processing terminals near the port to expedite export processes and ensure timely cargo arrivals for shipment prioritization. Additionally, export trucks gain access to the port on a 24-hour basis, facilitated by the electronic call-up system of traffic management.

Despite an increase in trade, efforts are made to prevent shipment delays. Export containers are allowed into the port 10 days before the arrival of the lifting vessel to ensure scheduled shipment.

Addressing reports of abandoned containers, NPA confirmed the presence of 616 abandoned containers at the port. Efforts are underway to retrieve these containers, involving shipping lines and the Nigerian Customs Service.

Data from April 28 to May 5, 2024, shows significant export activity, with 2,294 boxes shipped out and 1,377 fresh boxes received.

Bello-Koko has urged Customs management to streamline export processes by eliminating duplicate export desks at various commands. Discussions between NPA and Customs aim to ensure 24-hour port operations and enhance inter-agency coordination for streamlined export processes.