By Femi Anamelechi
Assistant Comptr. Oyindolapo. A Oladepo who was representative of the CGC of Nigeria Custom Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR) and stakeholders, comprising port service providers and users, have identified some of the impediments and challenges of 24 hours ports operations in Nigeria. Assistant Compt, Oyindolapo Oladepo stated that NCS has deployed the B’Odogwu as a single window unit technology to facilitate ease of doing business at the seaports, the App since it was rolled out has led to increased revenue generation by the Customs. “
The B’Odogwu app since it was rolled out in September 2024 has greatly increased the revenue generation of the PTML command as N5billion revenue was generated in one day.” He stated that even though infrastructure is a challenge, Nigeria Custom Service is working assiduously to improve on the challenges by creating a seamless trade facilitation environment at all the sea ports The experts identified infrastructure deficits and cultural orientation as key factors limiting the nation’s plan to attain 24 hour operations at seaports.These were issues highlighted at the 5th JournalN Port Industry Town Hall Meeting, themed: “Bridging the Gaps to Actualize 24 hours Port Operations.”
Speaking at the summit on Thursday in Lagos, the Chairman of Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, stated that the quest to actualize 24 hour operations at Nigerian seaports is no longer aspirational, but a necessity. “With a carefully sequenced strategy anchored on technology, sustainability, and stakeholder alignment, we can reposition our ports as efficient, secure, and economically transformative assets.” Mr Bolaji further pointed out that, “As Chairman of NPCC, I reaffirm our commitment to this vision. We invite all stakeholders—MDAs, port terminal operators, energy providers, transport unions, and investors—to join us in executing this transformation,”
He maintained that for 24-hour port operations to be successful, the labour unions must be considered because the have a strategic role and must their workers ready to work night hours with adequate increment in remuneration. Chairman of the occasion and Head of Research at Sea Empowerment Research Centre (SEREC), Dr. Eugene Nweke, noted the several failed attempts by some port operators and regulators to have digitalized processes.He stated that there is a need to harmonize the digital platforms of port service providers and regulatory agencies in a single window that can facilitate ports operations. “There must be the right policy framework that allows 24-hour operations of ports, especially for service providers whose activities are essential in the logistics value-chain,” Nweke said. Also speaking, Port Manager of Apapa Port, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, observed that during public holidays and festive seasons, Nigerian seaports are characterised by a lull in activities as stakeholders are yet to fully adopt the concept of 24-hour port operations.
According to Adebowale NPA has fully automated its processes, he disclosed that certain aspects of the Authority’s services can be hindered by the inability to conclude some bank payments outside banking hours.The General Manager of Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), Ahmed Ogunsola, stressed the need for an independent regulator to streamline performance of various operators such as Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and concessions.He recommended the introduction of a new regime for cargo inspection with state-of-the-art scanners with artificial intelligence, especially fast scanners with the ability to handle over 200 containers per hour.Ogunsola said the TMP, as IT Consultants to Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), is expected to provide 67 modern scanners to expedite cargo examination at ports, he confirmed that only 5 have been acquired.
Also speaking at the summit, President of National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA) Mr. Lucky Amiwero, called for more trainings for freight forwarders, officials of Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and terminal operators on activities that speed up port operations.The Publisher of JournalNG, Mr. Ismail Aniemu, expressed optimism that Nigeria could attain the expected development of automation and port efficiency. Aniemu urged Maritime and key players to be united in the nation’s bid to attain 24hour operations at seaports while pointing out the need for security, lighting and infrastructure that supports nighttime operations.The summit attracted key maritime stakeholders
