…Researched and contributed by Gift BADEWO.
NPA wrestles cargoes from neighbouring countries
The Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, has announced that it has begun to retrieve cargoes meant for Nigerian ports from neighbouring countries such as Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana.
The NPA has attributed this to the inauguration of the Lekki Deep Sea Port in Lagos State and improved port efficiency.
The Managing Director of NPA, Mohammed Bello-Koko, made this announcement while interacting with journalists in Lagos.
Lekki Deep Sea Port
The Lekki Deep Seaport was inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari on January 23, and is regarded as a “game changer.”
According to Bello-Koko, “it is the first time a government will start construction of a port, finish and commission it before leaving office.
The Lekki Deep Seaport has been in the brain box for over 10 years; it is this administration that came in and gave all the necessary support through the Ministry of Transportation and NPA.”
Automated operations
Bello-Koko has also disclosed that business has started at the Lekki Deep Sea Port and operations will be automated.
Additionally, the NPA boss has accused importers of diverting cargoes meant for Nigerian ports to other countries’ seaports.
Commentary
The commencement of operations at the Lekki Deep Sea Port has been a significant achievement for Nigeria’s economy.
The port, with its advanced features and modern equipment, is expected to enhance the nation’s trade and commerce.
The retrieval of cargoes from neighbouring countries is a welcome development, as it will increase the revenue generated by Nigerian ports.
However, there is a need for continued efforts to improve the efficiency and security of Nigerian ports to make them more attractive to shippers and importers.