Following a comprehensive review and extensive consultations with various stakeholders in the maritime sector, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has introduced a new export policy aimed at enhancing the efficiency of port operations. The new policy reduces the entry time for trucks carrying export cargoes into the ports by 40 percent, cutting the waiting period from 72 hours to 48 hours.
This significant change is part of the NPA’s ongoing efforts to streamline port processes and improve the overall logistics chain for exporters. By reducing the entry time, the NPA aims to facilitate quicker turnaround times for trucks, minimize congestion, and enhance the competitiveness of Nigeria’s export sector.
The decision to implement this policy was made after a thorough review and consultations with key stakeholders, including port operators, logistics companies, exporters, and relevant government agencies. These discussions were crucial in identifying the bottlenecks in the current system and developing a more efficient framework for handling export cargoes.
The reduction in entry time is expected to provide substantial benefits to exporters, including reduced costs associated with delays and improved predictability in the supply chain. Additionally, it will contribute to the decongestion of port access roads and terminals, ensuring a smoother flow of goods and services.
NPA Managing Director, Mohammed Bello-Koko, stated that this policy is part of a broader strategy to modernize Nigeria’s ports and enhance their capacity to handle increasing volumes of trade. He emphasized the NPA’s commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration with industry stakeholders to achieve these goals.
