NPA Prioritises Port Community System Amid ETO Review

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s Port Community System (PCS) as it undertake a comprehensive review of the Electronic Call-Up System (ETO), a transformative intervention in the Apapa port corridor.

Speaking on this development, NPA Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho described ETO as a strategic response to longstanding disruptions in the port logistics chain that had significantly impacted both port users and residents.

He explained that the system, implemented in partnership with Truck Transit Parks Limited (TTP), introduced a structured approach to truck scheduling and movement, helping to ease congestion and improve access to the ports.

Represented by the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara, Dantsoho noted that the visible improvement in travel times and traffic flow into Apapa stands as evidence of the system’s effectiveness, with users now able to navigate routes that were previously avoided due to gridlock.

He stressed that the system is currently undergoing a detailed review, after its expiring date. This according to him, aimed at identifying gaps, addressing stakeholder concerns, and refining its operational framework.

The MD emphasised that such reviews are a standard part of contractual agreements and are necessary to ensure continuous improvement.

“Despite the ongoing evaluation, ETO remains in operation under interim provisions designed to prevent any disruption to port activities, reflecting its critical role in daily operations.

“The review process, being conducted jointly with TTP, is expected to shape a renewed model that aligns with broader digitalisation objectives within the maritime sector.

“Central to this vision is the Port Community System, which the NPA described as an integrated digital platform that will connect all stakeholders within the port ecosystem,” he stated.

Dr Dantsoho said many agencies and operators already run independent automated systems, and the goal of the PCS is to harmonise these platforms into a single interface that enables seamless communication, data exchange, and operational coordination.

He explained that the move towards a Port Community System is consistent with global best practices, where interoperability among stakeholders is key to efficiency and transparency.

To him, “Efforts are already underway to ensure that various systems developed by different organisations can be linked effectively, although minor integration challenges remain”.

The Authority also expressed confidence that these issues will be resolved as stakeholders continue to collaborate.

Addressing concerns over delayed concession renewals, the NPA Boss acknowledged that several long-standing agreements have expired, stressing that the government is prioritising a thorough review process before granting renewals.

The aim, he said, is to resolve historical issues between the Authority and concessionaires, to achieve balanced and effective new agreements.

However, while some operators have expressed concerns about uncertainty and its impact on investor confidence, Dr Dantsoho maintained that interim extensions granted by the government demonstrate a clear intention to sustain operations while reforms are finalised.

He also identified the complexities of extending digital systems such as ETO or the proposed PCS to newer port environments like the Lekki corridor, where ownership and operational responsibilities are shared among multiple stakeholders.

“Unlike Apapa, where implementation was more straightforward, decisions in Lekki require alignment among private investors, state authorities, and federal representatives, a process that may take longer but is necessary for long-term sustainability,” he stressed.

Overall, the NPA reiterated that port operations will continue uninterrupted throughout the review period and expressed optimism that the outcome will not only sustain the gains made by ETO but also enhance them through deeper integration under the Port Community System. The Authority believes that this next phase of digital transformation will position Nigeria’s ports for greater efficiency, improved stakeholder collaboration, and increased global competitiveness.