Terming the consistent traffic congestion on port access routes as an issue of international standing, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) emphasizes the need for collective action by all involved parties to address and manage this challenge effectively.
During an unplanned visit to the Tincan Island Port access road, the Managing Director of NPA, Mohammed Bello Koko, made this revelation in a recent statement.
The purpose of this visit, he explained, was to build upon the progress made in removing unauthorized checkpoints and shanties that have contributed to the traffic congestion on the Tincan Island Port access road.
It is worth noting that the NPA administration under Mohammed Bello Koko recently garnered praise from certain freight forwarders associated with the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders for successfully alleviating the chronic traffic congestion that has plagued the Lagos Ports of Apapa and Tincan.
Bello-Koko emphasized that the agency’s unwavering commitment to preventing any hindrances to traffic flow is not by chance.
He extended his gratitude to the Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their support in assisting the NPA in achieving this milestone.
“Port access roads serve as international gateways, and therefore, traffic congestion on these critical routes, aside from impeding port operations, reflects poorly on the international stage, necessitating a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to address it sustainably.
“While the root causes of the congestion lie beyond the NPA’s scope, as the primary gateway to the national economy, we are obligated to lead the charge in combatting this issue,” asserted Bello-Koko.
Addressing the problem of refuse obstructing the drainage systems, the NPA chief disclosed that he has instructed the relevant department within the organization to commence clearing the drains and waste.
He declared, “We will seek the cooperation and enhance collaboration with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority and the Federal Ministry of Works, which are responsible for waste and road management, to curb this concerning trend.”