Headlines

How NPA has sanitised port access roads with deployment of ETO, Electronic Barrier system

Funso OLOJO

Contrary to reports sponsored by entrenched interests in a bid to return the port access roads to the dark days, the Nigerian Ports Authority has, in collaboration with Trucks Transit Parks, recorded major improvements in port traffic management following the full deployment of electronic barrier systems across all terminal access points within the Lagos Port Complex.

At the peak of the Apapa traffic gridlock in 2018 and 2019, measures put in place to resolve the perennial problem failed until the Nigerian Ports Authority and Transit Parks Limited (TTP) introduced Electronic Call-Up System also known as Ètò.

Despite initial resistance by entrenched interests, the NPA stood its ground and enforced the system.

Since then, sanity has largely returned with commuters and residents who ply the roads on a daily basis applauding the NPA.

The Ètò Electronic Call-Up System, developed and managed by Trucks Transit Parks Limited, is a digital truck scheduling and access management platform designed to streamline traffic into and out of Nigerian ports.

Electronic barrier systems at port access roads offer enhanced security, improved traffic management, increased efficiency, and significant cost savings.

By replacing or supplementing manual processes, Ètò has provided a more reliable and modern solution for controlling and monitoring port entry points.

To implement the electronic call-up system, the NPA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and other relevant stakeholders, developed about 29 truck parks across Lagos State.

All of the 29 truck parks have fully deployed the Eto infrastructure, which includes automated gating systems and other information technology (IT) equipment.

The electronic call-up has been able to streamline cargo evacuation and truck movements, thereby bringing a level of sanity to the roads.

Apart from a few isolated cases where some truck drivers try to subvert the system by not adhering strictly to the truck manifest requirement, the electronic call-up has brought sanity to Apapa.

Aside from the call-up system, the NPA also started enforcing the use of railways in the movement of import and export cargoes in and out of states in the hinterland.

Recently, a Kano-based exporter moved about 100 tons of millet direct from Kano to Lagos Port via rail. The rail also had passengers on board the coaches.

“I spent almost 50 per cent less as haulage cost to move my millets in containers from Kano Railway Station to Lagos Port. If these cargoes are to be moved by trucks, the goods worth millions of naira, would have cost me more,” said the exporter, who did not give his name.

Addressing Long-Standing Challenges

The authority is promoting multi-modal transport systems through the use of railways and barges for the movement of cargo in and out of the ports.

The development has tremendously reduced congestion at most terminals at the ports, thereby helping to improve ports efficiency.

“Many barge operators have been licensed by the authority in order to ensure effective and safe operation.

” A regulatory framework has also been developed, which looks into the state of the barges being deployed.

“When we approve the deployment of the barges, we discovered that many of them did not have communication equipment and we directed them to install such equipment.

*We also insist that these barges must be seaworthy before they are allowed to sail in order to forestall a situation where they break down at the middle of the channels, which could cause disruptions,” said an official of the NPA.

Also, the NPA introduced a new policy for the management of empty containers. This policy compels shipping lines to take back at least 80 per cent of the loaded containers that they came with for every voyage in empties and export cargo.

Reacting to a recent report by fifth columnist who took sides with entrenched interests who wanted to sabotage the system and return the ports access roads to the dark days, the NPA said it has, in collaboration with Trucks Transit Parks, recorded major improvements in port traffic management following the full deployment of electronic barrier systems in all terminal access points within the Lagos Port Complex.

The system, which became fully operational in September 2025, is now a key part of daily port operations, ensuring that only authorised trucks with valid Ètò-issued call-up tickets can access designated terminals.

Integrated with the Ètò Electronic Call-Up System, the barriers have added a new layer of physical enforcement to digital scheduling, strengthened gate control, improved traffic coordination, enhanced the accuracy of port data, and overall traffic flow within the port.

Before the deployment of the integrated barrier system, the port operations were hampered by unauthorised truck diversions between terminals, with vehicles crossing from one terminal to another outside their scheduled bookings, idle trucks lingering in the port area seeking unscheduled jobs and congestion caused by non-compliance with standard operating procedures.

The barrier system has effectively closed these loopholes, providing a robust physical enforcement layer for the Ètò platform.

Each barrier automatically lifts only for trucks with verified call-up tickets assigned to a specific terminal, ensuring that all movements are scheduled, controlled, and traceable.

Enhanced Control, Data Integrity

According to the NPA, the deployment of electronic barriers represents a major leap in its automation of port operations.

“For years, unauthorised truck movements and human interference undermined efficiency in port operations. With the barrier system now active, we have end-to-end control from the point of booking to terminal access and exit,” the General Manager, Operations, Mrs. Stella Oladiran, said in a statement.

“Key benefits already recorded include: improved end-to-end control of the electronic call-up process, from booking to terminal exit, data integrity and accuracy in tracking port traffic and truck movements, transparent monitoring of inter-terminal traffic for better accountability and enhanced port productivity and efficiency through precise truck scheduling.

How The System Works

Each terminal gate is equipped with a fully automated electronic barrier connected to the Ètò platform.

Trucks with valid Ètò tickets are automatically verified and granted access.

Unauthorised trucks are denied entry, eliminating manual checks and reducing human interference.

The system provides real-time data on every truck’s entry, exit, and inter-terminal movement, enabling better coordination across the entire logistics chain.

Stakeholders’ Reaction

Meanwhile, stakeholders have denounced the reports of resurgence of gridlock on port access roads.

Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex, Mr Adebowale Lawal said the NPA, in line with its mandate to ensure the smooth operation of Port activities and the free flow of traffic around the Apapa Port Complex Corridor, remains fully committed to maintaining order and preventing any recurrence of the severe gridlock previously experienced along the access roads.

“We have recently undertaken a review and enhancement of the ETO system, which now integrates Terminal Gates directly with the ETO platform.

“This integration is designed to provide a structured sequencing of truck movements, both inbound and outbound within the Apapa Port Complex.

“The objective of this initiative is to ensure transparency, improve traffic efficiency, and maintain a sustainable operating environment around the ports.

“However, the success of this system depends largely on the cooperation and compliance of all Stakeholders, including Terminal Operators, Transport Unions, Drivers, Clearing Agents, and Government Agencies (Both Federal and State).

“Sequencing truck entry and exit is not rocket science. With sincerity of purpose and commitment from all concerned, we can achieve and maintain orderliness and prevent a return to the chaotic conditions of the past.

“It is in our best interest, because smooth Ingress and Egress of Trucks will, in the long run, bring about high turnover for all Stakeholders,” he stated.

On his part, the Chairman of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), Remi Ogungbemi said, “Our attention has been drawn to some misleading media reports alleging that gridlock has returned to the Apapa port corridor due to a collapse of the electronic call-up system.

“We wish to categorically state that such reports are false, exaggerated, and do not reflect the true situation on ground.

” All the road arteries leading to the Apapa Port — including Wharf Road, Creek Road, and other adjoining routes — remain orderly and passable.

“At present, trucks are moving in a single, regulated lane towards their designated terminals within the port in compliance with traffic and safety directives.

“This organised movement should not be mistaken for gridlock. We therefore urge the public, port users, and the media to disregard and debunk these unfounded rumours.

“The current traffic situation around the Apapa port corridor reflects improved discipline, better enforcement, and enhanced cooperation among stakeholders.”

He added, “We remain committed to continuous collaboration with relevant government agencies, traffic management authorities, and terminal operators to sustain the gains achieved so far in port access management.

“We commend the efforts of all stakeholders who have contributed to ensuring the smooth flow of trucks and cargoes in and out of the port.”

In his reaction, the General Manager of Corporate and Strategic Communications, NPA Ikechukwu Onyemekara said the era of all forms of illegality of the past as it concerns truck accessing the ports is over.

He said meddlesome interlopers would always find a way to discredit the NPA, adding that the authority was committed to its mandate of ensuring ports efficiency.

“The electronic call-up system is a global best practice, and in addition, with the electronic barrier being in place at all terminals, practices that encourage chaos along the port corridor will not be possible anymore.

“The NPA has been collaborating and will continue to engage all stakeholders who are genuinely committed to the growth of the maritime industry and the nation at large to ensure an efficient port system,” he said.

Headlines

FG trains 75 boat operators on safe inland waterway navigation

Funso OLOJO

The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, in collaboration with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has concluded a three-day Boat Navigation and Safety Training for 75 boat drivers and skippers, as part of efforts to improve safety and professionalism on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

The training, which ran from Monday, 22, December, 2025 to Wednesday, 24 December, 2025 focused on equipping participants with the practical knowledge and operational competence required for the issuance of the Certificate in Safe Boating and Navigation.

Participants were drawn from major boating associations, including the Maritime Workers Union, the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATAN), and the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN).

Boat operators from Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states took part in the programme.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Timothy Clement of the NIWA Lagos Area Office described the training as a significant intervention aimed at reducing accidents on inland waterways.

He noted that many previous boat mishaps were caused by limited technical knowledge and insufficient experience among operators, adding that sustained capacity-building would help address the challenge.

Clement also highlighted ongoing safety measures being implemented by NIWA, including the removal of wrecks to improve navigation and continuous sensitisation of boat operators along major routes such as CMS, Ikorodu, Badore, Badagry and Port Novo.

According to him, NIWA has intensified awareness campaigns, moving from jetty to jetty to educate operators on safe practices, while encouraging boat owners to release more skippers and captains for structured training programmes.

“So far, so good. We thank God for the success of this three-day training for boat skippers.

“Participants came from Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, and over the past three days, they have learned a great deal,” Clement said.

“This year alone, NIWA conducted sensitisation exercises two to three times across different jetties.

“We are encouraging operators to make more of their captains and skippers available for this kind of training.

” I believe that by this time next year, we will have even more reasons to celebrate improved safety on our waterways,” he added.

Also speaking, the Lead Trainer and Consultant, Dr. Sileola Akinbowale, described the programme as a life-saving initiative designed to strengthen manpower capacity and reduce waterway accidents.

She explained that the training was structured to ensure boat operators are properly equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills required to operate safely and efficiently.

Akinbowale commended the Federal Government, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the former Managing Director of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji, for prioritising safety and capacity development in the sector.

Assessing the programme, she rated it about 90 per cent successful, noting that it combined classroom sessions with practical exercises on the water.

“We did not limit the training to classroom lectures. Participants were taken out for practical sessions at the jetty, which made the programme very effective. It was an all-inclusive training, not just theory,” she said.

She assured that the initiative would be sustained, stressing that continuous capacity enhancement remains critical to saving lives and improving professionalism on inland waterways.

Participants expressed satisfaction with the training, describing it as timely and impactful.

A Lagos-based boat operator, Wasiu Olalekan, said the programme had strengthened participants’ ability to respond to emergencies and distress situations.

“With this training, we now know how to handle distress situations on the waterways because of the knowledge given to us. On behalf of the Lagos State participants, we appreciate the Minister and NIWA management for this opportunity,” he said.

Another participant from Ondo State, Biobaku John, said the training exposed him to critical safety and emergency response skills that would enhance his professionalism.

“I gained important safety and firefighting skills during these three days. As a boat driver, I learned a lot and I am proud to have participated,” he said.

Similarly, the leader of the Ogun State delegation, Pami Ronald, said participants were trained in boat handling, safety procedures, first aid, emergency response, engine maintenance and effective waterway transport management.

“For the past three days, we learned extensively about safety, first aid, how to raise alarms, call for rescue teams and even engine maintenance. The training was very educative,” he said.

The programme forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and NIWA, in line with recommendations from investigation reports under the tenure of former NIWA Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, to improve safety standards, professionalism and confidence among inland waterway operators nationwide.

Headlines

FG approves 50 percent price slash on Yuletide train services

— as passengers flood train terminal

Funso OLOJO

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has commenced 50 percent price discount on Yuletide train services across the country which was approved by the Federal Government to ease traveling during this festive session.

The 50 percent slash in the prices of train services runs between Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025 to Sunday, January 4th, 2026.

According to the statement from the NRC, the commencement of the price reduction attracted huge turn out of passengers who thronged major railway corridors across the country to take advantage of the offer.

At major stations along the Lagos–Ibadan, and Abuja–Kaduna, as well as key narrow gauge routes, passengers turned out in large numbers, with several train departures operating at near full capacity as early bookings reflected strong public response to the 50% discount initiative.

The festive rail service, being implemented by the Nigerian Railway Corporation, runs from Tuesday, 23 December 2025 to Sunday, 4 January 2025, during which passengers enjoy a 50 percent discount on train fares nationwide to ease the cost of festive travel.

Many passengers who interacted with NRC officials expressed appreciation for the 50 percent discounted fares, describing the initiative as timely, thoughtful, and economically relieving, especially for families and group travellers journeying to reunite with loved ones during the Yuletide season.

According to the NRC , the 50 percent Yuletide Train Ride is a people-oriented intervention under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at reducing transportation costs, promoting inclusive mobility, and encouraging the use of rail transport as a safe and reliable alternative during peak travel periods.

Speaking on the commencement of the discounted festive operations, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of the Corporation’s preparedness to sustain safe, efficient, and customer-focused services throughout the Yuletide period.

The Corporation confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced security, safety, and customer service arrangements in place across stations and onboard trains to manage increased passenger traffic resulting from the 50% discount offer.

Passengers travelling on standard gauge routes are advised to continue using NRC-approved online booking platforms, while passengers on narrow gauge services can purchase their tickets directly at designated railway stations.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation reiterates its commitment to seamless festive operations and urges passengers to cooperate with railway officials and comply with all travel guidelines to ensure smooth journeys throughout the 50% discount Yuletide Train Ride period.

Headlines

NIMASA applauds role of maritime media in Nigeria’s success at IMO council elections

–seeks support to sustain momentum of the global feat

Funso OLOJO

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA) has acknowledged the invaluable support and contributions of Nigerian journalists, especially the maritime media, to the recent success of Nigeria at the International Maritime Organization(IMO) elections.

It could be recalled that Nigeria won the elusive category C council election at the IMO after 14 years of failed attempts.

Receiving the leadership of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) led by Mr Tunde Ayodele on Wednesday December 17th, 2025 at the Headquarters of NIMASA, Edward Osagie, the Deputy Director and Head of the Public Relations Department of the agency, noted that maritime media has complemented the untiring efforts of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and NIMASA to showcase the enormous maritime potential of Nigeria and its capacity in maritime administration that eventually won the country the coveted global seat.

The NIMASA Chief spokesman highlighted the importance of developmental journalism to nation’s building while admonishing the media, especially maritime media, against reportorial style that could demarket the country.

” The international community is taking note of every single report we write as journalists about the country and it’s what they use to assess us as a nation.

” That is why it is imperative for us as journalists to allow patriotism and commitment to nation building guide the way we write”

He however frowned at attempt by few journalists to push wrong narrative over the recent incident of the arrest of a vessel, MT SKIPPER , detained by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)over alleged crude oil theft and other transnational crimes.

Osagie reiterated the fact that the detained vessel was neither flying Nigerian flag nor its purported owners, Thomarose Global Ventures Limited, registered with NIMASA as a shipping company.

He said that what identifies a vessel is the flag it flies and since the detained vessel did not carry Nigeria’s flag, those who tried to ascrib its ownership to Nigeria did so either out of sheer mischief or ignorance.

Osagie however lauded MARAN for its responsible journalism, acknowledging the support of its members to NIMASA despite the agency’s perceived shortcoming in their expectations.

” Despite the fact that the agency may not have met all the expectations of members of MARAN, they haven’t written negative reports on our activities and operations” Osagie noted.

” MARAN brand is a brand I am proud of and we are also proud of in the
industry. MARAN has not done badly in its reportorial duties.

“At NIMASA here, we will support anything you request and in any area we are able to support, we will support the administration for a smooth management of the association.

“And by the grace of God, we will not let you down. God bless you.God bless MARAN” NIMASA Chief image maker declared.

Osagie expressed his gratitude and that of his team to the Director – General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, for his support and encouragement which he said made his job easier as the head of the PR unit.

” I want to appreciate the DG for his support and role in making my job as the Head of PR unit of NIMASA stress-free.

” There is hardly any request for the welfare of journalists that I present to him which he ignores.

” Through his favourable disposition to anything that concerns journalists, he has shown undisguised passion and commitment to the capacity development and welfare of maritime journalists” Osagie declared.

Ayodele has led his caretaker committee members to NIMASA to consolidate on the long-standing relationship between the agency and MARAN.

Leading his PR team to receive the MARAN leadership, Osagie expressed happiness on the visit which he believed will further boost the cordial relationship between the two parties

“I am glad that you’re here today. It’s a special day. I’m glad to have you in our midst today” Osagie enthused.

The two parties engaged in frank discussion aimed at enhancing their operations and further boost their shared values and partnership.

Ayodele informed his hosts that MARAN will continue to practise responsible journalism that will enhance the operations of NIMASA in particular and boost the credibility of the country to the outside world.

He therefore asked NIMASA to reciprocate this gesture through action that will enhance the professional integrity and impact the welfare of his members.

Osagie however pledged the support of the agency for the new caretaker committee and the MARAN as a whole, a situation he said is in alignment with the belief of NIMASA’s management in the values which the agency shares with the association.