NPA moves to relocate customs scanner from rail line in Apapa

DDM News

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced its collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that they plan to relocate the scanning machine currently positioned on the rail line in Apapa.

This initiative aims to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted evacuation of cargo from the seaport.

It will improve efficiency in port operations.

The Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed this development during an unscheduled inspection of key operational corridors.

The visit focused on the Lagos Ports access road on Tuesday.

The visit was part of efforts to enhance port accessibility.

It aimed to address logistical bottlenecks affecting cargo movement.

Dantsoho emphasized that such surprise visits would become a regular occurrence.

They provide firsthand insight into operational challenges.

These visits enable swift interventions.

He stated that the NPA remains committed to working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service.

They aim to ensure the scanner’s relocation.

The relocation is necessary to facilitate seamless cargo movement through the rail system.

Government approval for port infrastructure rehabilitation

In addition to the planned relocation, the NPA boss highlighted ongoing efforts by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

Adegboyega Oyetola secured the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval for rehabilitation projects.

The projects will be at Tin Can Island Port and critical areas of the Apapa Port Complex.

Dantsoho acknowledged the importance of this government-backed initiative.

He noted that it aligns with broader strategies to modernize port infrastructure.

It aims to improve Nigeria’s position as a competitive maritime hub.

These developments will significantly enhance cargo handling capacity.

They will attract more shipping activities to Nigerian ports.

Commitment to traffic management and efficient evacuation

Addressing concerns over persistent congestion, the NPA chief reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to improving traffic management.

He underscored the importance of streamlining operations by integrating multimodal transport solutions.

This includes using barges and rail lines to evacuate cargo efficiently.

“The port access road serves as an international corridor,” Dantsoho stated.

He emphasized the need to uphold the highest standards.

NPA has zero tolerance for bottlenecks that impede cargo movement.

One key measure is ensuring that automated access gates function optimally.

Reducing standard operating procedures (SOPs) will facilitate quicker transactions.

NPA will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure compliance with traffic management protocols.

These efforts will enhance the overall efficiency of port operations.

Private sector collaboration for port modernization

During his visit, Dantsoho met with the chairman of Flour Mills Group, Mr. John Coumantaros.

They discussed strategic improvements in port operations.

The discussions focused on private sector investments in critical infrastructure and equipment upgrades.

These investments are necessary to boost efficiency and increase Nigeria’s market share in trade.

Coumantaros commended the business-friendly environment fostered by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He highlighted the need for sustained reforms to attract more investments in the maritime sector.

He emphasized that continuous engagement between the NPA and private sector stakeholders is essential.

Long-term growth and stability in port operations depend on these engagements.

Dantsoho expressed appreciation for the government’s ongoing efforts in securing approvals for key projects.

He reiterated that the planned rehabilitation of the Tin Can Island and Apapa Port complexes would significantly enhance efficiency.

These upgrades will position Nigeria as a strategic hub for international trade.

National single window project to boost cargo processing

Beyond infrastructure development, the NPA managing director also spoke on the federal government’s approval of the National Single Window (NSW) project.

According to him, this initiative marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s quest to streamline port operations.

The project will attract larger cargo vessels.

“The National Single Window project is a game-changer for Nigeria’s maritime industry,” Dantsoho explained.

It will simplify documentation and reduce delays.

The project aims to improve transparency in cargo processing.

This move reinforces Nigeria’s readiness to accommodate large cargo carriers.

It aligns with the scale of Nigeria’s economy and population.

Successful implementation of the NSW will improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business ranking.

It will also enhance revenue generation.

The maritime sector’s overall efficiency will see significant improvements.

NPA remains committed to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.

Strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in maritime trade

With efforts to relocate the scanner, modernize infrastructure, and implement the National Single Window, NPA is strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness.

Dantsoho reaffirmed that the authority’s primary goal is to facilitate seamless cargo movement.

Nigeria’s ports must remain attractive to local and international shipping lines.

“As we work towards relocating the scanner and implementing key projects, our focus remains on efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness,” he concluded.

NPA is determined to create a port system that serves Nigeria’s growing economy.

The system must also compete favorably with the best in the region and beyond.

NPA’s continued efforts, in collaboration with Nigeria Customs Service and private sector partners, will yield long-term benefits.

With government commitment to infrastructural reforms and policy enhancements, stakeholders anticipate a more efficient port system soon.

The maritime industry is set to experience greater transparency and investment-friendly operations.

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