By Anthony Nwachukwu
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and relevant security agencies, have commenced a three-day full-scale clean-up and sensitisation operation to clear the Lagos port corridors of congestion, environmental hazards and security threats.
Aimed at tackling the various issues hindering smooth operations at the ports to achieve greater efficiency, the operation, tagged “NPA Security Clearance Operations 2025,” covers all entry approaches to the Tin Can Island Complex, Lagos Port Complex, Kirikiri Lighter Terminals I & II, and the port environs.
The goal is to clear out criminal elements, as well as shanties, kiosks, machinery, equipment and containers that obstruct the free flow of traffic and pose a threat to the safety of personnel, cargo and vessels.
This initiative is also in line with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code), developed by the International Maritime Organisation to ensure the safety and security of ports worldwide.
Flagging off the exercise, the NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, noted that “the port access roads and environs are international corridors and gateway to the national economy, and we have a duty to enter necessary collaborations to ensure that sanity is maintained.”
According to him, “the operations will not only improve the safety and security of the ports but also contribute to the economic growth of the nation.
“The congestion and delays caused by these issues have been a major hindrance to the efficient functioning of the ports, affecting trade facilitation and ultimately the nation’s GDP.”
Represented at the flag-off exercise by the General Manager, Security, Anthony Edosomwan, Dantsoho disclosed that the agency’s security division had previously carried out print and electronic media enlightenment campaigns to sensitise the public on the importance of the exercise.
According to him, “this is a crucial step in garnering support and cooperation from all stakeholders, including port users, traders and residents in the surrounding areas.”
Meanwhile, Dantsoho restated NPA’s commitment to achieving environmental sustainability and maintaining a clear and safe port environment. He insisted that “the negative impact of pollution and encroachment on the ports cannot be ignored.
“This clean-up operation is not only beneficial to port operations but also to the surrounding communities and the environment as a whole.”
Noting the collaborating with relevant agencies on awareness campaigns, he called for every stakeholder’s support and cooperation in the clean-up operation for a safer, more secure and friendly port environment.
