The Sea Empowerment and Research Center on Tuesday raised the alarm about a looming epidemic outbreak and economic losses in Nigeria if the current empty container administration processes remain unchanged.
In a research report submitted to the office of the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), a copy of which was made available to Tribune Online, the Center lamented the imbalance between the high inflow of import-laden containers into Nigeria and the low outflow of empty containers. It stated that this situation could have severe consequences for the port environment, nearby communities, and the economy.
According to the research report shared by the Head of Research of the Sea Empowerment and Research Center, Fwdr. Dr. Eugene Nweke, “The Center is highly worried about the poor empty container administration in the Nigerian shipping space and has thus reviewed the socio-economic consequences of the littering of empty containers in the Nigerian ports environment, taking the Western port of Apapa, Tin-Can, and Kirikiri Lighter Terminal as a case study.
“The imbalance between the high inflow of laden containers and the low outflow of empty containers can have severe consequences for the port environment, nearby communities, and the economy.
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“The following are some of the effects of the influx of empty containers within the port environment, nearby communities, and the economy:
“Environmental Consequences: Empty containers occupy valuable space, causing congestion and clutter in ports, terminals, and surrounding areas. These abandoned containers can leak hazardous materials, contaminating soil and water. Improper disposal contributes to waste management issues and creates breeding grounds for pests, rodents, and other disease-carrying animals.
Social Consequences: Empty containers littering nearby streets and communities can lead to reduced property values, an increased risk of accidents and injuries, and a decreased quality of life. These abandoned containers can also provide hiding spots for criminals.”
In terms of economic losses, the Center explained, “Abandoned empty containers can lead to port congestion costs, delayed vessel turnaround times, increased demurrage fees, and reduced port efficiency.
“They can also increase storage costs by occupying valuable space, incurring additional expenses. Consequently, there is a loss of revenue due to reduced port capacity and efficiency.
“Congestion and pollution can harm local businesses such as fisheries, tourism, and commerce.
“An imbalanced container flow can lead to shortages for exporters, increased transportation costs, and supply chain disruptions.”
To address the menace of abandoned containers in Nigeria, the Center advocated for several solutions, including the establishment of Empty Container Depots and container recycling.
“The potential solutions include the establishment of Empty Container Depots for empty container storage, encouraging recycling or repurposing of empty containers, implementing efficient container tracking and management systems, and promoting exports to balance container flow.
“Additionally, enacting regulations and incentives to promote sustainable container management and collaborating with private companies to develop innovative solutions are crucial.
“The Center emphasized that stakeholders involved in container management should take necessary actions, including shipping lines implementing efficient container management practices, terminal operators ensuring proper handling and storage of containers, government agencies enforcing regulations, providing infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices, and local communities participating in waste management and container recycling initiatives.
“By addressing the imbalance between laden and empty containers, stakeholders can mitigate negative consequences and promote a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly port environment.
“The Center hopes this summarized report will contribute significantly to the effort to develop a firm empty container management and administration system in the Nigerian shipping and port space.”
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