NPA SETS UP JOINT TASK FORCE TO CLEAR LAGOS PORT ACCESS ROAD CONGESTION

NPA SETS UP JOINT TASK FORCE TO CLEAR LAGOS PORT ACCESS ROAD CONGESTION
Authority Targets Extortion, Operational Gaps to Sustain Port Efficiency
By Prince Benson Davies

The Nigerian Ports Authority has constituted a multi-agency task force to address the return of traffic congestion on Lagos port access roads, as part of efforts to keep cargo moving and protect recent improvements in port performance. The move follows renewed pressure on the corridors leading to Apapa and Tincan Island ports.

The initiative was agreed at a stakeholders’ meeting convened by NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, on June 23, 2026. Participants included security agencies, freight forwarding groups, truck operators and officials of the Lagos State Government. The forum focused on practical steps to remove bottlenecks that have been slowing down cargo evacuation.

Stakeholders at the meeting linked the latest gridlock to illegal collection points, duplicated roles among security formations, and other operational lapses along the port corridor. They resolved to deploy coordinated action to address the distortions and restore order.

Speaking after the meeting, the NPA General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemakara, said the Authority is prioritizing unimpeded cargo movement to and from the seaports. He stated that restoring order on the access roads is central to protecting trade flow and investor confidence.

According to him, the newly formed task force includes representatives of the NPA, the Nigeria Police Force, NAGAFF, ANLCA, FRSC, MWUN, NARTO and AMATO. He said the group will carry out continuous monitoring of truck movement, spot early signs of disruption, and resolve issues promptly to prevent congestion from building up.

Onyemakara noted that the task force will operate without roadblocks. Rather than erecting checkpoints, operatives will be stationed at strategic points to ensure compliance while allowing free flow of traffic.

He added that a dedicated WhatsApp group has been activated for real-time reporting. The channel, he said, will enable members to flag violations or traffic incidents instantly so the task force can respond quickly.

On the Electronic Truck Call-Up system, Onyemakara said NPA is carrying out a review of the contract terms to build a stronger agreement before a new concessionaire is appointed. He confirmed that although the previous ETO contract has lapsed, Truck Transit Parks is still managing the platform to avoid service disruption while procurement is concluded. He expressed confidence that the process will be completed in the shortest possible time.

He maintained that efficient port access remains a key part of NPA’s broader plan to enhance Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness.

“The seamless movement of cargo is in our best interest because it directly impacts port performance and perception,” he said.

“With the positive recognition Nigeria is receiving internationally, including in the World Bank assessments, we are committed to consolidating these gains and driving even better results across our port corridors.”