Lagos Ports Disrupted by National Protests, Operations Reduced to Skeletal Service

The bustling Lagos Ports witnessed a significant slowdown in commercial activities yesterday, as national protests disrupted normal operations. Despite assurances from the Port Police Command, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to keep port activities running smoothly, no agents were seen processing cargo clearances.

Apapa Port Manager, Mr. Charles Okagha, confirmed to SK Blog that while NPA operations continued without interruption, with vessels being berthed and marine activities ongoing, he could not comment on the Customs operations. “We were open for business, and we also berthed vessels for our clients. On the marine side of the ports, we were up and running. I cannot speak for the Customs side,” Okagha stated.

The protests also led to the shutdown of major markets in the Apapa area, as fears of hoodlum activity grew. Shop owners closed their businesses to avoid potential vandalism.

Mr. Emenike Nwakoji, President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Agents (ANLCA), confirmed that only skeletal services were available at some parts of the ports. He cited the closure of banks, which prevented agents from making necessary payments for import duties and other taxes, as a significant factor in the slowdown. “We hope that the situation will normalize soon, and the banks will reopen for agents to make payments,” Nwakoji added.

Similarly, ANLCA Vice President Mr. Segun Oduntan noted that while many Customs operations have gone digital, enabling online documentation and payments, the bank closures still hindered overall port operations.

A freight forwarder told SK Blog that taking delivery of containers during the protests would be risky due to the presence of criminal elements. Despite the heavy presence of police and soldiers, many traders and customers chose to stay home to avoid potential dangers on the roads.

The protests have had a broader impact across Nigeria, with reports of fatalities and curfews in states like Yobe, Kano, and Borno. Meanwhile, in the South-east, markets remained open despite the unrest, as highlighted by the contrasting response in different regions.

As the situation evolves, stakeholders at the Lagos Ports remain hopeful for a return to normalcy, enabling them to resume full operations and meet the demands of their clients.