The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has temporarily halted the movement of trucks from designated pre-gate areas into the Lagos Port Complex (LPC) to clear the backlog of cargoes currently congesting the terminals.
In a notice to stakeholders, the NPA — through its technical partner, Transit Truck Parks Limited (TTP) — said the suspension is part of efforts to decongest the port access roads and restore smooth operations. The agency assured that the restriction is only temporary and that the pre-gates will reopen once terminal spaces are cleared and ready to receive new trucks.
The statement read in part:
“The Nigerian Ports Authority has directed a temporary hold on the release of trucks from all pre-gates serving the Lagos Port Complex (LPC) until further notice.
“This measure is aimed at facilitating the clearance of congestion along the port access route. Please note that this operational measure is temporary, and the pre-gates will be reopened as soon as the terminals absorb all the trucks currently on the roads.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work with relevant authorities to restore normal operations. Updates will be provided as they become available.”
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Reacting to the situation, Mr. Sani Mohammed, an official of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), said the congestion had worsened, stretching from Wharf Road to Ijora and paralyzing movement across Apapa.
He blamed the gridlock on terminal operators, accusing them of operating too slowly, which has contributed to the buildup. Mohammed also mentioned that a broken-down truck along the route further aggravated the situation, leaving many container-laden vehicles stranded for hours.