The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced a temporary suspension on the release of cleared cargoes from the Apapa Port Complex (APC) due to severe congestion issues currently affecting the port’s operations. This development is likely to disrupt logistics, supply chains, and the overall efficiency of cargo movement at one of Nigeria’s busiest ports.
In an official notice directed to the trucking sector, Truck Transit Parks (TTP)—the firm responsible for managing truck movements along the Apapa port corridor—confirmed the halt on truck releases from the Lagos Port Complex’s pre-gate area. The notice explained that the NPA is closely monitoring the situation to determine when normal operations can resume.
The notice stated: “Please be informed that there is a temporary hold on truck release from the Lagos Port Complex pre-gates due to ongoing congestion. We are closely monitoring the situation and will relax the hold as soon as conditions improve.”
The congestion has created significant bottlenecks at the port, delaying the flow of goods and hampering both local and international trade activities. This has raised concerns among stakeholders in the logistics and transportation sectors, who warn of potential economic impacts if the congestion persists.
Mr. Sani Mohammed, an official from the Association of Maritime Transport Owners (AMATO), attributed the congestion primarily to the inefficiency of terminal operators at the port. He criticized these operators for failing to effectively manage the inflow and outflow of cargo, exacerbating the congestion crisis.
Expressing frustration, Mohammed stated, “What we are experiencing is a result of low efficiency by the terminal operators. They have not been able to facilitate the smooth movement of cargo, and yet, they will still charge demurrage fees for the delays caused by their inefficiency.”
The situation continues to develop, with industry stakeholders urging immediate action to resolve the congestion and restore efficient cargo movement at the Apapa Port.