The newly appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has paid a courtesy visit to the operational office of Trucks Transit Parks Ltd (TTP) at the Lilypond Container Terminal, Ijora.
The visit aimed to assess TTP’s operations and explore opportunities to further enhance port efficiency and reduce congestion. It also marked a significant milestone in the collaboration between the NPA and TTP, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s port operations.
During his visit, Dr Dantsoho was given a comprehensive tour of TTP’s operational facility, including a firsthand view of truck traffic management at Lilypond and the real-time CCTV live feed and monitoring systems employed by TTP at its control centre to oversee port gates, terminals and pre-gates.
He was also presented with milestones/impact of the electronic call-up system since inception in 2021 and a video showcasing TTP’s proposed e-tag/RFID innovation, which promises to revolutionise the port corridor ecosystem.
The immersive experience highlighted the role TTP plays in streamlining port operations, enhancing logistical efficiency and contributing to a more sustainable port ecosystem.
Impressed by TTP’s achievements, the NPA MD commended the company for its innovative solutions and dedication to improving port operations. He emphasised the need for continued collaboration between NPA and TTP to boost the port community and drive sustainable growth.
Dr Dantsoho also underscored the necessity for innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies, advocating a transition to renewable energy to minimise carbon footprints, safeguard the environment and ensure the long-term sustainability of port operations. “For long-term projects, TTP should consider renewable energy to cut down emissions and carbon footprint,” he stated.
Jama Onwubuariri, Managing Director of TTP, extended his gratitude to Dr Dantsoho for his visit and reiterated TTP’s dedication to continue partnering with the NPA. He highlighted the continuous enhancements made to the Eto electronic call-up system, with over 150 updates since its launch, demonstrating TTP’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Onwubuariri also announced that TTP’s e-tag and RFID system, fully funded by TTP, is primed for implementation pending official approval from the NPA. “We are pleased to announce that some areas, such as the Lagos Port Complex, have already been equipped with RFID/e-tag scanners and they have undergone successful testing,” he noted.
Onwubuariri reaffirmed TTP’s readiness to extend its truck traffic management solutions to other ports across Nigeria and West Africa. He also disclosed plans for TTP to collaborate with the NPA in setting up a command and control centre at the NPA headquarters in Marina, which will enhance the visibility of truck traffic around the ports and terminals and fortify the coordination and management of port operations.
He said: “Our commitment to innovation and excellence in port management is unwavering. We are excited about the potential of our e-tag/RFID technology to streamline operations and set new standards for efficiency and sustainability in the industry.
“Our shared goal is to create a more efficient, secure and sustainable port ecosystem for all stakeholders. We look forward to continued partnership with the NPA to drive forward the integration efforts with the port community and ensure our ports are globally competitive.”
The visit concluded with a positive outlook for the partnership between NPA and TTP, as both organisations expressed their commitment to working together to address challenges and drive growth in the Nigerian maritime industry.
Read Also: FG launches $1.2bn initiative to transform healthcare
