In a move to address pressing issues within the Nigerian ports, a delegation of maritime truck operators comprising the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), and the Nexus Association of Maritime Trucks Operators (NAMTOP) recently visited key port agencies to discuss challenges faced by truck drivers, while also emphasizing the paramount importance of truckers’ welfare.
The delegation led by Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, President General MWUN during the courtesy visits to Port Managers Sylvester Egede of Tincan Island and Charles Okaga of Apapa, along with the Apapa Ports Police Command under Commissioner of Police Lanre Ishola, addressed several key issues affecting operations.
One major concern that was addressed was the proper identification of drivers and their trucks, as previous practices of drivers having multiple plate numbers hindered smooth operations.
The collaboration assured port managers that such practices would be thoroughly investigated and eliminated.
Tin Can Port Manager, Sylvester Egede expressed gratitude for the visit, noting that it was the first time the maritime labour leader had visited since he assumed office. The delegation also educated the port managers on the collaboration’s exclusive right to ticketing within port premises, emphasizing that external bodies should not interfere with this revenue-generating activity.
Meanwhile, in the visit to the Apapa Port Manager, Mr. Charles Okaga, the delegation highlighted vital issues affecting port operations, including challenges with the e-call up system.
The delegations noted that despite improvements in access roads, there is the need to enhance the system for more efficient operations. The Commissioner of Police Lanre Ishola, was also briefed on security challenges faced by truck drivers outside port zones, with an appeal to address extortion issues.
In response, Lanre Ishola assured the collaboration of his commitment to investigating reported incidents, promising to involve the Lagos State Police Command if necessary. He expressed support for the collaboration’s goals, provided they align with legal frameworks and regulations.
Adeyanju, speaking on behalf of the collaboration’s Board of Trustees expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Commissioner of Police and the willingness to cooperate.
