NPA exploits transit trailer parks for improved operations

Determined to rid the ports area of traffic gridlock, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), said it plans to commission two transit parks located at Lillypond, and TinCan Island second gate, to enhance port operations and improve service delivery at the nation’s gateway.
   
NPA Managing Director, Hadiza Bala-Usman, represented by the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Dr. Sokonte Davies, disclosed this at an interactive session with stakeholders in Apapa, Lagos.
  
She stressed that at the take-off of the trailer parks, priority would be given to truckers with empties and export contents.
  
Bala-Usman noted that NPA as a landlord would not fold its arms and allow total breakdown of the system. Instead, she said: “It would take the bull by the horn, and proffer permanent solution to the menace in view of the role the sector plays in the life of the nation’s economy.”
   
She explained that the plans included mandating the incoming Taskforce to ensure that trucks are barred from parking on the bridges forthwith; and shipping lines and terminal operators must synergise their operations to ensure the success of the call-up system. Also, security agencies are to remove all categories of trucks milling around the ports environment, while traffic and law enforcement agents are to ensure that the Tincan Island – Mile 2 corridor axis is open for optimal traffic and port management.
   
In addition, the various sectional heads of NPA involved in the exercise resolved that enforcement would be total, whilst calling for support and understanding of all stakeholders.
  
Stressing that the trailer parks were only a transit point, she urged the enforcement agencies to ensure that broken-down trucks are towed away on a penalty, and assured all concerned that a platform would be made available for them to lodge their complaints.
 
The Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, represented by an Assistant Director, Shipping Development, Mrs. Anna James Akpan, endorsed the initiative, saying ports are a critical component of the maritime sector.

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