By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, on Tuesday convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos to address extortion, traffic enforcement concerns, and jurisdictional overlaps along the Apapa and Tincan Port access roads. The meeting brought together security agencies, transport authorities, freight forwarders, and port operators to develop coordinated solutions that will improve port operations and ease cargo movement.
Critical Stakeholders Attend Strategic Meeting
Dr. Dantsoho received the Assistant Inspector General of Police (Maritime), AIG Nurat Okunade, the representative of the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Ojowuro Olasunkanmi, the Secretary-General of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Godfrey Nwosu, and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Lagos, Corps Commander Ganiyu Hamzat.
The meeting focused on eliminating operational bottlenecks that affect businesses and road users around Nigeria’s busiest seaports.
NPA Strengthens Collaboration for Efficient Port Operations
During the discussions, stakeholders examined reports of extortion and enforcement conflicts involving multiple agencies operating on port access roads. They also reviewed measures to streamline responsibilities and improve inter-agency coordination.
Dr. Dantsoho emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among relevant agencies. He noted that effective coordination would enhance security, facilitate trade, and improve the overall efficiency of port operations.
Senior NPA Officials Support Reform Efforts
The NPA Managing Director attended the meeting alongside the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mrs. Vivian Richard-Edet; the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus; and the General Manager, Security, Mr. Anthony Edosomwan.
Their presence underscored the Authority’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges on the Apapa and Tincan Port corridors.
Stakeholders Seek Lasting Solutions
The stakeholders agreed on the importance of sustained engagement and coordinated enforcement strategies. They also stressed the need to eliminate illegal activities that hinder cargo evacuation and increase transport costs.
The meeting forms part of the NPA’s broader efforts to improve port efficiency, enhance the ease of doing business, and support Nigeria’s economic growth through seamless maritime operations.
