The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is to sustain significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to streamline port operations and eliminate gridlock around the Lagos Port Complex, following the full deployment of electronic barrier systems across all terminal access points in collaboration with Trucks Transit Parks (TTP).
The move marks a major improvement in port traffic management, building on the success of the Ètò Electronic Call-Up System, the digital platform introduced in 2021 to regulate the inflow of trucks at Nigeria’s busiest ports.
The situation in Apapa, once described as a “logistics nightmare,” reached its peak in 2018 and 2019, with petrol tankers and container trucks perpetually clogging access roads. Efforts to decongest the area were fraught with resistance from entrenched interests profiting from the chaos.
However, the tide turned with the introduction and strict enforcement of Ètò by NPA and TTP. Despite initial opposition, the authorities held firm, earning praise from commuters and residents who have since seen a return to orderly road use.
“The electronic call-up system has brought sanity back to Apapa,” said an NPA official. “The deployment of electronic barriers has strengthened enforcement and further streamlined port operations.”
The Ètò system, developed and managed by Trucks Transit Parks, is a truck scheduling and access management solution that ensures only trucks with valid bookings gain entry into port terminals.
To support its implementation, the NPA, in partnership with Lagos State and other stakeholders, established 29 certified truck parks across the state — all equipped with automated gates and other technology infrastructure.
The newly deployed electronic barriers have closed key loopholes, such as unauthorised truck diversions and idle vehicles seeking unscheduled business within the port. Only trucks with verified Ètò-issued tickets now qualify for entrance, eliminating manual clearance and reducing human interference.
“This is a major leap in our automation goals,” said NPA’s General Manager, Operations, Mrs. Stella Oladiran. “We now have end-to-end control from booking to terminal exit. Data integrity, accountability, and port efficiency have all improved significantly.”
Multi-Modal Cargo Solutions Reduce Pressure on Roads
In parallel with the call-up system, the NPA has pushed for multi-modal transport for cargo evacuation. The rail system is increasingly being used for long-distance haulage, easing pressure on Lagos roads.
Recently, a Kano-based exporter successfully moved 100 tons of millet in containers from Kano to Lagos Port by rail — a trip that cost almost 50% less than road transport. The NPA is also actively encouraging the use of barges, licensing operators and establishing regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and efficiency.
Addressing Empty Container Challenges
To further decongest the ports, the NPA has introduced a policy requiring shipping lines to evacuate at least 80% of containers they bring in. This policy is aimed at reducing pile-ups of empties, which have historically constituted a major part of traffic around port corridors.
Stakeholders Debunk Claims of Resurgent Gridlock
Responding to recent reports suggesting a return to gridlock at the Apapa port corridor, stakeholders including the Lagos Port Manager, Adebowale Lawal, and the Chairman of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), Remi Ogungbemi, dismissed the claims as exaggerated and misleading.
“All access routes remain orderly and free-flowing. The current regulated movement of trucks is a sign of discipline, not disorder,” Ogungbemi insisted.
Lawal added that the NPA’s ongoing review of the Ètò system, including its direct integration with terminal gates, is designed to ensure lasting efficiency. “Success depends on cooperation across the board — from operators to unions and government agencies,” he said.
Commitment to Sustained Efficiency
In a final word, the NPA’s General Manager of Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to maintaining port efficiency.
“With the electronic barriers fully operational, the era of impunity and chaos on port roads is over. We remain committed to transparency and collaboration with all partners willing to support a modern, efficient port system,” he said.
The full integration of technology-backed systems signifies a decisive shift towards global standards and positions Nigeria’s ports for enhanced competitiveness in international trade.
