NPCC outlines roadmap for efficient, tech-driven ports

The Nigerian Railway Corporation moved 66,110 tonnes of cargo from Lagos ports in the first quarter of 2025 across 55 trips.

Mr Bolaji Sumola, Chairman, Nigeria Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), made this disclosure in an interview with our Correspondent Tuesday in Lagos.

He said that the movement of cargo through rail required more expansion to reach more locations in Nigeria.

He then called for improved road and rail links to support 24-hour cargo evacuation.

He suggested the introduction of structured three-shift systems with night allowances, adding that there was a need for the government to partner with health and safety experts to mitigate fatigue and hazards.

He said that port efficiency required collapsing overlapping mandates under a unified port operations command.

Sumola said that this would enable the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and quarantine services to share data in real time.

According to him, Nigerian seaports must actualise 24-hour port operations in order to enhance efficiency and stop cargo diversion.

Sumola urged the maritime industry to harness the energy of its large youth labour force with growing ICT sk s for a smarter, greener, and more competitive 24-hour ports operations.

He said that the ongoing modernisation of Apapa and Tincan Island ports would involve the reconstruction of existing and dilapidated port infrastructure for improved vessel and cargo turnaround time.

He said that the electronic platform would reduce processing time, ensure seamless coordination among stakeholders and enhance the ease of doing business at the ports.

Sumola said that the implementation of solar hybrid power at all ports would enhance reliability and increase cargo turnaround time.

“Translating vision into reality, NPCC proposes a phased, collaborative roadmap such as digitally transforming all ports, implementing and expanding the Port Community System (PCS) and National Single Window to cover all terminals.

“Other roadmaps are the introduction of digital twins (virtual replica of a physical asset, system, or process that enables real-time monitoring, simulation, analysis) and predictive analytics for port logistics management.

“This results in increased efficiency, cost reduction, improved safety, and sustainability.

“Invest in Smart Infrastructure as well as upgrade cranes, lighting, scanners and control systems for night shifts,” Sumola said.

He said that solar installations in Apapa, Tin Can, and Onne as pilot zones need to be funded, adding that creating partnerships with clean energy investors and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs).

NPCC boss reaffirmed the council’s commitment to this vision and invited all stakeholders, MDAs, terminal operators, energy providers, transport unions and investors to join in executing this transformation.