Oluyinka Onigbinde
Indigenous barge operators have raised fresh concerns over operational constraints at Apapa Port, warning that limited access to berthing space and rising costs are threatening their survival and undermining efforts to ease congestion on Lagos roads.
The operators, under the aegis of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN), allege that activities at the port—particularly those linked to APM Terminals—have significantly restricted their ability to operate efficiently.
Speaking on the situation, BOAN National President, Olubunmi Olumekun, expressed concern that indigenous operators are increasingly being sidelined in barge operations, a development he said could negatively affect local participation in the maritime sector.
According to him, many operators have struggled to secure berthing access for loading and discharging cargo, forcing them to rely on alternative arrangements. One such option had been working through Eko Support Terminal, where containers were temporarily handled before being moved to APMT. However, Olumekun noted that this arrangement has recently been disrupted, further compounding their challenges.
He also pointed to the growing influence of GMT Shipping, which he claimed is now predominantly used for barge services at certain berths, limiting opportunities for other local operators.
Beyond access issues, BOAN highlighted a sharp increase in terminal handling charges, which they say has made barge transportation far less competitive compared to road haulage. Operators estimate that the cost of moving a 40-foot container by barge has risen significantly, now exceeding what is typically charged for trucking over similar distances.
Industry stakeholders warn that this trend could discourage the use of barges—widely regarded as a key solution to decongesting Apapa’s notorious traffic—and ultimately lead to higher prices of goods for consumers.
BOAN also raised concerns over the use of the Apapa common user finger jetty, which they believe should remain accessible to multiple operators. The association maintained that its members have the technical capacity and equipment required to manage such facilities if given fair access.
Citing international best practices, the operators stressed the need for terminals to maintain designated space for emergency and barge operations, noting that adherence to such standards is essential for efficiency and safety within port environments.
Framing the issue within the broader national agenda, Olumekun said the current situation could hinder the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen indigenous capacity in the maritime sector, particularly under the blue economy initiative championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He called on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, to urgently intervene and facilitate a more inclusive operational framework that supports local operators.
Also speaking, BOAN’s Director of Enforcement and Operations, Nura Wagani, noted that the recent increase in charges was implemented without adequate consultation with stakeholders. He warned that the ripple effects could extend beyond the port, impacting supply chains and consumer prices nationwide.
Wagani further observed that the situation appears more pronounced at Apapa compared to Tin Can Island Port, where he said costs and access conditions remain relatively more favourable for operators.
The association is now urging the Federal Government to review current port operations and ensure a level playing field that balances efficiency with the protection of indigenous participation.
