Lekki port tightens truck controls to ease congestion

The Nigerian Ports Authority and stakeholders along the Lekki Port corridor are implementing stricter controls on truck traffic to alleviate congestion affecting the port, petroleum facilities, free-zone businesses, and coastal road construction. During a meeting convened by the Lekki Port Manager, Emmanuel Anda, the urgent need for coordinated traffic management was acknowledged.

To address the situation, trucks were directed to use a single lane, allowing other road users access. The Lagos State Government's directive for electronic call-up systems was reinforced, and trucks were to be released through this system in line with terminal capacities. The Chief Operating Officer of the Lekki Free Port Terminal, Ajay Harlal Tyagi, announced a system of one-container, one-booking to prevent duplicate bookings, and the introduction of a radio-frequency identification system to enhance access control and reduce truck turnaround times.

However, the Managing Director of Call-Up Technology, Timi Koleolu, criticized the lack of full implementation of the standard operating procedure (SOP). Truckers were urged to utilize designated parks and complete the booking process before proceeding to the port. Stakeholders emphasized the need for better truck parks, including facilities such as toilets, resting areas, and canteens, to improve driver comfort.

The Lagos State Government is also working with Lekki Worldwide Investment to enforce agreements and ensure orderly truck movement. All parties agreed to inspect designated truck transit parks to evaluate their facilities and utilisation, with hopes of reducing traffic congestion within a month.