Nigerian Ports Authority Halts Container Release at Apapa Port Due to Major Congestion

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has temporarily halted the release of cleared cargoes from Lagos’ Apapa Port Complex (APC). The suspension, which will likely disrupt logistics and supply chains across Nigeria, aims to manage the current backlogs and improve cargo flow in one of the nation’s busiest trade hubs.

Truck Transit Parks (TTP), the traffic management firm overseeing truck movement along the Apapa port corridor, confirmed the release suspension through a notice to the trucking sector. “Please be informed that there is a temporary hold on truck release from the Lagos Port Complex pre-gates due to ongoing congestion,” TTP stated. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will relax the hold as soon as conditions improve.”

This halt has sparked concerns among logistics operators and trade stakeholders, who warn of potential ripple effects on both local and international trade if the situation remains unresolved.

Mr. Sani Mohammed, a representative from the Association of Maritime Transport Owners (AMATO), criticized the operational efficiency of the port’s terminal operators, which he believes is the root cause of the congestion. “The inefficiency in handling cargo flow has created unnecessary bottlenecks,” said Mohammed. “Terminal operators have failed to facilitate smooth cargo movement but continue to charge demurrage for delays caused by their mismanagement.”