Increasing reports of abuses of process in the operation of barges and private jetties have compelled the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to clamp down on unworthy barges while three illegal jetties have also been sealed.
The NPA in a statement said the decision followed the establishment of an inter-agency committee comprising representatives of the NPA, Nigerian Maritime Administration Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Lagos State Inland Waterways Authority (LASWA).
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The statement signed by the Assistant General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ibrahim Nasiru, said the committee is spearheading the clearing of the waterways of lay-by barges and tugboats along Ibeji/Ilashe axis and as far as the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal and Mile Two Bridge, as well as the removal of wrongly anchored barges that are obstructing visibility along the Kirikiri channel.
In another development, the NPA announced that as part of its efforts to improve access into, and service delivery at the Lagos Ports Complex and the Tin Can Island Port, it has imposed a 14-day suspension of export receipts at both ports and all satellite truck parks, with effect from Monday, March 22, 2021.
It added that the development is necessitated by the need for consultations with export cargo stakeholders, and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council(NEPC) on the harmonisation of procedures required of owners of this category of cargo.
It further stated that “The Authority expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their support towards the success of Eto since its introduction three weeks ago and seeks continued support in the determination to end truck congestion on access roads into the ports and improve service delivery.”