Congestion: NPA begins vessel diversion from Lagos ports

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will on Monday 27th of January start diverting vessels that have been held up for longer periods of time in the congestion crisis rocking the Lagos ports to other ports in Lagos, including the Eastern ports of Onne, Rivers and Calabar.

In a statement signed over the weekend by the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of the NPA, Jatto Adams, the move is a direct response to the congestion crisis rocking the Lagos Port Complex.

According to the NPA, “In response to the recent increase in the waiting time of vessels calling at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, the Nigerian Ports Authority have met with shipping companies and terminal operators and arrived at the following decisions aimed at immediately resolving the congestion in the Lagos Pilotage District.

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“As from Monday, January 27, 2020, vessels which have waited to berth at any terminal within the Lagos Pilotage District will be diverted to other terminals with capacity to berth vessels within the district.

“In the event that all terminals in Lagos cannot discharge any vessels within four days, such vessels will be diverted to the Eastern Ports (other pilotage districts) for immediate berthing.

“The Authority will liaise with other relevant government agencies on behalf of stakeholders to expedite the clearance of vessels and cargoes, where necessary.

“These actions have been taken to promote the Ease of Doing Business Policy of the Federal Government and curtail the negative economic impact that the long turnaround time of vessels has on stakeholders.

“We solicit the cooperation of all stakeholders.”