By Oluyinka Onigbinde
An investigation by Shipping Position Daily has revealed that terminal operators at the Lagos ports may temporarily lose portions of their operational space and face logistical adjustments as the Federal Government commences major port reconstruction and modernization projects expected to run alongside ongoing cargo operations.
The development is linked to ongoing discussions within the maritime sector on the implications of the Lagos port rehabilitation programme and broader port reform efforts aimed at improving efficiency and competitiveness.
A stakeholder who is familiar with the project explained that while the modernization initiative represents a significant investment in excess of one billion dollars, its execution may require temporary adjustments within existing terminal layouts to accommodate construction activities without shutting down port operations.
The source explained that because reconstruction works will be carried out concurrently with cargo handling activities, terminal operators may be required to temporarily adjust or cede portions of their operational space to allow contractors carry out critical infrastructure upgrades.
He added that such adjustments are typical in major port redevelopment projects where operations must continue alongside reconstruction works.
The port reconstruction programme is also expected to run alongside existing operational activities, raising expectations that project timelines will be flexible, due to technical and environmental factors such as weather conditions, construction curing periods, funding schedules, and ongoing port operations.
Industry observers further emphasized that timelines for such projects are usually estimates, as multiple operational variables can influence delivery schedules.
He explained that attention is also gradually shifting toward the development of eastern ports, with stakeholders suggesting that advocacy for those locations may intensify after the Lagos phase gains momentum.
According to him, a phased approach is being considered to ensure that focus remains on successfully executing the Lagos modernization before expanding discussions on Warri, Port Harcourt, and other ports.
However in a chat with our correspondent, the Group Head, Corporate Communications of SIFAX Group, Mr. Muyiwa Akande, said that Port and Cargo handling operations are yet to receive any official memo regarding any operational space adjustments linked to the Lagos port modernization project.
“For now, we have not been informed, no memo has been sent to that effect. So we will continue to carry out our operations as usual” he said.
He added that the terminal operator is not aware of any formal arrangement indicating that its operational area would be affected at this stage.
Similarly, the General Manager of PTML Terminal, Mr. Tunde Keshinro, said he would not comment on the matter, noting that the ongoing port modernization and rehabilitation programme is not expected to affect PTML terminal operations.
