Nigeria’s ports, the lifeline of the country’s economy, continue to operate under a debilitating limitation of restricted hours of operation. Despite repeated promises and efforts, round-the-clock port operations remain elusive. This glaring shortcoming has far-reaching consequences, including stifling trade and hindering economic growth.
The current situation is a relic of the old era, where manual processes and limited infrastructure justified limited operating hours. However, in today’s digital age, with automation and technology advancement, there is no excuse for Nigeria’s ports to lag behind, especially when neighbouring countries like Ghana and Togo have successfully implemented 24/7 port operations, reaping the benefits of increased trade volumes and revenue.
The costs of this failure are staggering. Shipping lines and importers face unnecessary delays, incurring additional costs and demurrage charges. Exporters struggle to meet delivery deadlines, damaging Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable trade partner. The economy suffers, as lost revenue and opportunities mount. According to a recent report, Nigeria loses an estimated $100million due to port congestion and inefficiencies.
Moreover, the limited hours of operation create an environment conducive to corruption and extortion. With limited time to clear cargo, importers and exporters are often forced to rely on middlemen and “facilitators,” who exploit the situation for personal gains. This has led to a culture of corruption, where bribes and gratifications are exchanged for speedy clearance and preferential treatment.
The lack of round-the-clock port operations also has a ripple effect on the entire economy. It leads to increased costs for importers and exporters, which are eventually passed down to consumers. This results in higher prices for goods and services, contributing to inflation and reduced economic growth.
Apparently aware of this lacuna, prominent government actors, including a former Vice President; Professor Yemi Osinbajo had waded-in. All these attempts have failed to yield any positive result.
For instance, in 2021, the then-Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Hadiza Bala Usman, confirmed that some Federal Government agencies operating at the ports disobeyed the directive and executive order that was signed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, on ensuring 24-hour port operations.
The NPA boss had confirmed that, said Osinbajo, while serving as acting President in 2017, signed an executive order on the promotion of transparency and efficiency in the business environment and directed the resumption of 24-hour operations.
Before then, heads of maritime agencies in Nigeria had equally agreed to work on modalities for a quick commencement of 24 hours’ operation at the seaports. The agreement that was reached in 2017, remained on paper in the offices of the various agencies.
So, why has Nigeria failed to achieve 24/7 port operations despite repeated promises? The answer lies in a combination of factors – inadequate infrastructure, inefficient processes, and a lack of political will. Successive governments have prioritized short-term gains over long-term investments in port infrastructure and technology. The lack of automation and digitalization have resulted in manual processes, prone to errors and delays.
Furthermore, the ports are plagued by inadequate staffing, poor training, and low morale among employees. This has led to a lack of accountability, transparency, and efficiency in port operations. The absence of a robust port management system has resulted in poor coordination, communication, and decision-making.
To break this cycle of inefficiency, Nigeria must prioritize 24-hour port operations. This requires a comprehensive overhaul of port infrastructure, processes, and personnel training. Automation and technology must be embraced to enhance efficiency and transparency. Most importantly, political will and commitment are essential to drive this transformation.
Nigeria’s economic prosperity depends on its ability to facilitate trade efficiently. It’s high time the country to joined the ranks of nations with modern ports, and reap the benefits of increased trade, revenue, and economic growth. The government, port authorities, and stakeholders must work together to address the challenges and implement solutions. Only then can Nigeria’s ports become the hub of economic activity they were meant to be.
The benefits of 24/7 port operations are numerous. It will reduce congestion, increase efficiency, and lower costs. It will also enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable trade partner, attract more foreign investment, and create jobs. Most importantly, it will stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the standard of living for Nigerians.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s ports are a critical component of the country’s economic infrastructure. It’s time the country prioritized round-the-clock port operations, embrace automation and technology, and address the challenges hindering efficient port operations. Only then can Nigeria unlock its full economic potential and join the ranks of developed maritime nations.
