Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Hadiza Bala Usman

By FRANCIS EZEM

The Nigerian Ports Authority has said it would encourage the use of barges in the movement and transfer of import and export cargoes to and from the nation’s seaports to the hinterland across the country.

Managing Director of the authority, Hadiza Bala Usman, who made the pledge, said this new policy was in order to reduce the pressure on the port access roads and to serve as a permanent solution to the perennial gridlock being experienced within the ports axis.

According to the Managing Director, who was represented by the Executive Director in charge of Marine and Operations Department, Dr. Sekonte Davies at the first quarter forum of the Ports Consultative Council PCC, held in Lagos recently, assured that the authority would do everything possible to address the perennial gridlocks on port access roads.

She also told stakeholders at the event that the management of the authority under her watch would place a premium on the development of port infrastructure in order to engender efficient service delivery in the nation’s seaports.

“NPA is working assiduously towards ensuring the speedy completion of renovation works on the quay apron at the Ikorodu Lighter Terminal. We are certain that the renovation of the quay would improve the operational efficiency of the ports. The management would also continue to keep a harmonious relationship with stakeholders and we appreciate everyone your support and compliance with Fderal Government’s directives”, she assured.

Meanwhile, chairman of the PCC, Otunba Kunle Folarin, while speaking at the occasion, urged operators and stakeholders to engage NPA on a mutually beneficial synergy, which would help in moving the port industry forward.