NPA, ANLCA Partner to Tackle Congestion on Apapa, Tin Can Ports Access Roads

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) have agreed to strengthen collaboration aimed at easing congestion along the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports corridors, improving cargo evacuation, and enhancing the ease of doing business.

According to NPA’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the agreement was reached during a strategic engagement at the NPA Corporate Headquarters, Marina, Lagos, between NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, and ANLCA’s National President, Chief Emenike Nwokeoji.

Dr. Dantsoho commended port managers for their efficiency, noting that Apapa and Tin Can ports were recently ranked among the World Bank’s Top 20 Most Improved Ports Globally. He linked this achievement to reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s growing influence in maritime governance.

Discussions centered on the Eto system regulating truck movements. While effective in its pilot phase, rising trade volumes demand a stronger framework. ANLCA requested direct involvement in managing the system to curb racketeering and delays.

Dr. Dantsoho emphasized the need to upgrade aging infrastructure, deploy modern cargo-handling equipment, and sustain Lagos’ role as West Africa’s commercial hub.

ANLCA pledged to work closely with NPA, the Nigeria Police Force, and other stakeholders to monitor truck movements and swiftly address disruptions.

Chief Nwokeoji formally invited Dr. Dantsoho to ANLCA’s 72nd Anniversary Celebration scheduled for later this year.

Efficient port operations are vital to Nigeria’s economy, with Lagos ports handling the majority of imports and exports. Persistent congestion has long inflated logistics costs and slowed trade. This partnership, if effectively implemented, could significantly boost competitiveness, revenue, and investor confidence.