The failure of the Electronic Call Up System of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the inefficiency of the Lagos State government in ensuring a free flow of traffic on the Port Access road has come to the fore in an open letter sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations (COMTUA).
In the letter signed by its National President, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun and copied Governor Babajide Sanwoolu and Managing Director of NPA, the group highlighted catalogue of woes truck drivers experience on port access road on daily basis.
COMTUA, in the letter, lamented that the current state of the port access road causes significant disruptions to movement of goods and services, hindering operations of businesses, exacerbating cost of doing business, and impeding the progress of the national economy.
“It is disheartening to note that truck drivers are experiencing an unprecedented delay in accessing the port, with a turnaround time of up to three weeks. This delay is unjustifiable and has severe consequences for both importers and exporters, resulting in financial losses and a decline in productivity,” the open letter stated.
The group cried out that to compound matters, it has come to its attention that certain individuals or entities are being given preferential treatment, allowing them to bypass the system and move their cargo with minimal delays, while others suffer inordinate delays.
It alleged that this blatant disregard for fairness and transparency in the distribution of resources and opportunities has created an environment of frustration and a sense of inequality among stakeholders in the port logistics chain. ”
“It is imperative that immediate action is taken to rectify this situation and restore confidence in the system,” the letter further noted.
The letter requested President Tinubu’s urgent intervention by declaring a state of emergency on the port access road.
It maintained that this decision would empower relevant authorities to take swift and decisive measures to address the systemic failures and bring about tangible improvements.
“The declaration of a state of emergency will enable the deployment of additional resources, the implementation of stricter oversight, and the establishment of a task force comprising experts from various relevant sectors to resolve the issues at hand.”
Furthermore, the letter implored Mr. President to ensure a comprehensive review of the Electronic Call Up System being implemented by the NPA, advising that this review should aim to identify the root causes of its failure and explore alternative solutions to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.
“Additionally, it is crucial to remind you that the promise made by the Lagos State government to alleviate the congestion and ensure a free flow of traffic in the area before the disbandment of the Presidential task Team, hitherto set up by the previous administration has not been fulfilled three years after. The deployed committee of Lagos State and other enforcement teams in charge of the roads are abusing their position and often enrich themselves at the expense of the system.
Creation of disfunctional garages under the bridges such as MPS, MPS EXTENSION and others to confer priority on trucks belonging to their friends and associates is a major character of this committee in connivance with the Nigerian Ports Authority.
“Mr President sir, the success of our nation depends on the prosperity and smooth functioning of our ports and transportation systems. By addressing this urgent issue, you will not only alleviate the suffering of countless businesses and individuals but also demonstrate your commitment to good governance, fairness, and the welfare of our citizens,” the letter emphasized.
The President was enjoined to take prompt action on this matter, as time is of the essence, arguing that his leadership and intervention will undoubtedly pave the way for positive change and set a precedent for future challenges that may arise in the nation’s development.