Ports modernizing, national single window to tackle ports challenges – NPA MD

By Joy Enamuna 

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has re-emphasized plans to revolutionize the nation’s ports with the implementation of the National Single Window Project and Ports Modernisation system.

The Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed this during an interactive session with maritime journalists in Lagos.

The NPA MD who was represented by the General manager Corporate and Strategic Communications of the Agency Mr. Ikechukwu OnyemaKara said the modernisation project, which will cover all ports nationwide, is set to kick off in Lagos with a significant investment of $700 million from the Federal Government.

This is expected to tackle pressing issues such as port congestion and delays in cargo clearance, which have long plagued the sector.

According to Dantsoho, the NPA is also working to improve logistics, including rail transportation from APMT terminal and alternative cargo transport options.

The NPA is reviewing the Efficiency, Throughput, and Optimization (ETO) initiative, put in place to address logistics chain challenges in the country’s port system. Dantsoho assured that the review would yield a more effective implementation plan, with provisions to ensure the ETO works seamlessly.

“When we were doing the dredging, the ports in the East were also carried along,” he said, adding that government investments are focused on areas with returns on investment, which is why Lagos is the starting point.

The NPA MD expressed optimism that the agency’s vision for the ports industry would leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

He urged the media to play a proactive role in monitoring societal developments, emphasizing the importance of a free and vibrant press in driving progress and accountability.

“The media has been advised to be creative and step up its role as watchdog of the society,” he said.