An International shipping company calling at the Lagos Port Complex of Apapa Port and Tin Can Port has raised the alarm over severe berthing delays that take between seven days and three weeks.
In a letter issued to importers and their clearing agents, which was obtained by our reporter, one of the major shipping lines; Pacific International Line (PIL) said Lagos ports may have reached maximum capacity.
The shipping line hinted that Nigeria’s closed borders and lack of cargo handling equipment by terminal operators may have compounded the delays.
PIL calls at APM Terminals at Apapa Port and TICT at Tin Can Port. The statement suggested that both terminals do not have adequate cargo handling equipment, a claim that has remained permanent by licensed customs clearing agents, but perpetually denied by the terminal operators.
According to the letter entitled: “Re: Nigeria Port Delays (Lagos/Tin Can),” PIL wrote “Kindly be advised that Nigeria is currently facing severe berthing delays at Lagos Tin Can. Lagos is facing close to 3 weeks and Tin Can 5 to 6 days berthing. This is affecting all lines and please factors this into your supply chain delivery date.
“It is understood that the delays are attributed to the Port being at maximum capacity due to the country effectively closing its Borders to neighboring countries, compounded by lack of equipment in the Terminal and a recent fire in the port confines. We regret any negative impact this may have and be assured of our best efforts to get your cargo to destination as quickly as possible.
“Please do not hesitate to contact our marketing team for any updates or assistance.” It reads.
Reacting to the letter, the Chairman National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarder (NAGAFF) Ikorodu Government Warehouse Chapter, Mr Obinna Okafor stated that the movement of cargo to the Ikorodu customs government ware house is the only hope to reduce the congestion at the port, adding that this will also help to reduce vessels turnaround time at the port.
He informed that NAGAFF chapter of Ikorodu has started the campaign for the movement of the overtime cargo, while calling on all government agencies at the port to be on red alert.
According to him, “NAGAFF Ikorodu is in the face of ongoing campaign and strategy to move overtime container from Lagos port”.
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